According to Dr. Helen Warren, European technical Manager of the company Alltech, usually the level of milk fat varies the most during the spring, but the problem often persists throughout the grazing season, because the quality of the grass changes that can cause changes in the rumen pH.

"Recent studies show that more than 50% of cows have low rumen pH on the herbal diet. And it usually leads to a decline in milk fat, even in the absence of signs of acidosis. The problem with grass is that it often contains a lot of sugar and little fiber, which makes it quickly digestible. Spring grass is especially dangerous, although the problem may continue until the end of the summer, especially when grazing on modern varieties of ryegrass. Cows, of course, are also more likely to eat the leaves that contain the highest levels of energy and sugar, as well as the lowest levels of fiber," says Dr. Warren.

The expert also warns that if the rations based on grass will not be properly balanced, they can have a negative impact on the function of rumen and the digestion of cellulose, becoming a precursor of several problems: "the Acidic environment of the rumen can damage the mucosa of the rumen of a cow, which subsequently will affect feed intake and digestion. This can lead to reduced milk production, infertility and other health problems of cows."

To stabilize the environment of the rumen and maintain the level of milk fat in milk will be useful additional sources of fiber in the form of fodder or straw, as well as specialist advice to include a live culture of yeast to improve rumen stability. It is important to maintain a balance in the diet: "the Content of digestible fibre should be adequate compared to sugar and starch".

Dr. Warren says that should take a look at the strategy of maintaining the level of milk fat during the grazing season. Last but not least to ensure the achievement of bonuses for dairy products on contracts and to maintain an optimal level of digestion and the efficiency of conversion of feed.

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