Effect of 'steaming-up' on subsequent production in dairy cows

Abstract

Crossbred (Hariana, Jersey ~nd Holstein-Friesian) pregnant dairy heifers (12), were taken to study the effect of steaming-up on subsequent production. Animal were selected based on their similarity in age, body weight. Over and above the scheduled amount (@2.5 kg/day/animal) ofconcentrate, steaming-up group was provided extra 60 kg concentrate feed in 30 days (extra 2 kg/day/animal) whereas other group was considered as untreated control. After calving, animals were fed according to their milk yield Le. 2 kg concentrate for maintenance plus 1kg for every 2.5 kg milk production. Peak milk yield was almost similar but peak yield was attained earlier in control group than steaming-up group. Total milk yield, lactation length, per day yield and birth weight ofcalves were higher in steaming-up group than control group. The present study recommended that 'steaming-up' could have beneficial effect on subsequent milk production traits in crossbred primiparous dairy cows.