Effects of Fermented Total Mixed Ration on Feed Intake, Digestibility, Rumen Fermentation, and Milk Production in...

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a fermented total mixed ration (TMR) on feed intake, digestibility, rumen fermentation, and milk production in dairy cows in a hot environment. The experiment was conducted twice, with four multiparous Holstein cows used in each trial. Fresh and fermented TMR were used as dietary treatments in a crossover experimental design. Fresh and fermented TMR had the same diet composition. Fresh TMR was prepared every morning. Fermented TMR was prepared by baling fresh TMR and sealing it with a bale wrapper, followed by storage outdoors. Dry matter intake and digestibility did not differ between groups. Cows fed fermented TMR showed increased intake and digestibility of crude protein and non-fiber carbohydrate. Rumen total volatile fatty acids and propionate concentration were higher in cows fed fermented TMR than in those fed fresh TMR. Milk yield tended to increase in the cows fed fermented TMR. These results indicated that feeding fermented TMR to dairy cows in a hot environment altered feed digestibility and rumen fermentation and increased milk production. Therefore, fermented TMR is a suitable feed for lactating cows in a hot environment and is an effective technology for heat management.