rapid re-hydration post calving helps boost early feed intake and lactation yields

Dairy herds are reporting increased milk yields and fewer post-calving problems after providing cows with a new, reviving drink, according to dairy specialists Trouw Nutrition.

Maxcare Reviva, a water-soluble powder formulated by the company, has been designed to be administered immediately after calving and thereby provide the cow with rapid re-hydration and the important combination of readily available energy, essential salts and calcium. The drink is highly palatable with cows taking up to 20 litres, and looking for more. Trouw Nutrition say that dairy producers using Maxcare Reviva as part of a transition feeding regime are reporting improved milk yield.

Early access to water for the post-calving cow has always been a priority. The need for re-hydration is fundamental and the opportunity exists, in this first post-calving drink, to provide the mother with the water and essential salts needed to replace those expended during calving. Additional supplements to aid the cow through transition to maximum productivity are also required. The disturbed regulation of calcium metabolism at calving means that high yielding dairy cows may need assistance for at least two days.

Dr Helen Stebbens, Ruminant Category Manager at Trouw, confirms Maxcare Reviva meets three key needs of the cow post-calving. "Firstly it reduces recovery time thereby allowing the cow to lick and mother the calf at the earliest opportunity. It also helps to encourage early feed intake, thereby improving early lactation yields, and by providing soluble calcium it may help to prevent milk fever, and other metabolic problems." Dr Stebbens explains that the company has used a complex of micro-ingredients that have positive effects on gut function, including stimulation of rumen villus length. A highly palatable, unique sugar that bypasses fermentation in the rumen promotes fermentation in the hind gut. The short-chain fatty acids produced help to maintain a healthy microflora that can help to promote enhanced immune responses, and feed intake. Dr.Stebbens believes that the cost is equivalent to approximately 28 extra litres of milk and that Maxcare Reviva, when offered as part of a sound transitional cow ration, can deliver well in excess of this during the subsequent lactation.