Feed additives

Feed additives used to supplement dairy rations can increase daily feed cost from 2 to 65 per animal. The economic response (benefit to cost ratio) varies from $2.00 to $12.00 for each dollar invested in a specific additive. Knowledgeable dairy veterinarians must understand the role of each additive, when it will be beneficial, inclusion level, strategies and limitations associated with an additive, research and field recommendations, and measurable responses to monitor. Dairy additives and various methods to evaluate their role and economic response objectively are discussed.