Optimization of individual prestimulation in dairy cows

Area of Science:

• Animal Science
• Dairy Husbandry
• Agricultural Engineering

Background:

• Prestimulation is known to improve milking performance.
• Oxytocin (OT) release and milking characteristics are key indicators of milking efficiency.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of various prestimulation routines and vacuum settings on oxytocin release and milking characteristics in dairy cows.
• To determine the optimal prestimulation duration based on udder fill.

Main Methods:

• Investigated 43 dairy cows using vibration stimulation (0-90s) and varying maximum pulsation vacuum.
• Calculated udder fill as a percentage of estimated storage capacity.
• Measured oxytocin release, total milk yield, stripping yield, and lag time.

Main Results:

• Prestimulation routines did not significantly affect OT release, total milk yield, or stripping yield.
• Increased maximum pulsation vacuum during stimulation led to milk flow without negative impacts.
• Lag time was negatively correlated with udder fill, influencing optimal prestimulation duration.

Conclusions:

• Optimal prestimulation duration is dependent on udder fill: 90s for low fill, 20s for high fill.
• Adjusting prestimulation enhances milking stall capacity and reduces teat vacuum load.
• Tailoring prestimulation to udder fill optimizes milking efficiency and cow comfort.