Short communication: Preference for flavored concentrate premixes by dairy cows
M T Harper1, J Oh1, F Giallongo1
1Department of Animal Science, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park 16802.
Journal of Dairy Science
|May 23, 2016
Summary
Dairy cows showed flavor preferences, consuming vanilla and fenugreek flavored feeds most. These findings could enhance feed intake strategies for dairy cows, particularly in robotic milking systems or for sick animals.
Area of Science:
- Animal Science
- Dairy Cattle Nutrition
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Flavor preferences can influence feed intake in dairy cows.
- Stimulating feed intake is crucial for optimizing robotic milking systems and supporting sick cows.
- Understanding dairy cow flavor preferences can lead to improved feeding strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if dairy cows exhibit specific flavor preferences.
- To assess the impact of different flavors on feed intake and eating behavior in lactating Holstein cows.
Main Methods:
- A cafeteria-design experiment involving 16 lactating Holstein cows.
- Cows were offered 7 flavored concentrate premixes (FCP) and 1 control premix over 6 days.
- Consumption (amount and time) of each FCP was recorded during 5-minute access periods.
Main Results:
- Vanilla and fenugreek FCP were consumed in the largest quantities (408g and 371g/5-min, respectively).
- Orange and anise FCP were consumed in the smallest quantities (264g and 239g/5-min, respectively).
- Cows spent the most time eating vanilla and fenugreek FCP, and the least time eating orange and anise FCP.
Conclusions:
- Dairy cows demonstrated a preference for vanilla and fenugreek flavors when presented with novel choices.
- While concentrate intake relative to the control was not significantly affected by flavor, distinct preferences were observed.
- Flavor preferences may be a valuable tool for enhancing feed intake in dairy cattle management.
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