Buffalo Feed Arrangement During Lactation Period
Buffaloes are one of the main sources of milk production in many parts of the world. During the lactation period, buffaloes require high-quality diets that meet their nutritional requirements for milk production, maintenance, and growth. The lactation period ranges from 180 to 300 days, and during this period, the buffalo’s nutritional needs change. Therefore, it is essential to develop a feed arrangement plan that is specific for the lactation period.
The feeding of buffaloes during the lactation period should take into account the amount of milk produced, the body weight of the buffalo, and the nutrient requirements of the buffalo. The feed should be easily digestible, highly palatable, and contain the right balance of nutrients, including proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals.
The buffalo’s diet should consist of roughage and concentrate feeds. In the early lactating period, the roughage content should be 60% to 70%, and the concentrate feeds should be 30% to 40%. The roughage content can be in the form of green fodder, chaffed paddy straw or wheat straw. The concentrate feeds should be a mixture of grains, protein sources, and minerals. The concentrate feed should be fed twice to thrice a day and should be offered in a limited quantity.
The amount of feed offered to the buffalo should be gradually increased as the lactation period progresses. The feed should be offered in small quantities many times a day to allow for better digestion. Overfeeding should be avoided as this can lead to indigestion, ruminal acidosis, and other metabolic disorders.
During the early lactating period, the buffalo’s calcium requirement increases. Therefore, feed rich in calcium should be offered. Supplements containing calcium should be added to the concentrate feeds. Vitamin and mineral supplements should also be added to the buffalo’s diet, especially during the later stages of the lactation period.
In conclusion, feeding a buffalo during the lactation period requires careful consideration of the nutritional requirements and the amount of milk produced. A balanced diet of roughage and concentrate feeds should be provided in adequate amounts, vitamin and mineral supplementation, and careful attention should be given to avoid overfeeding. A balanced diet during the lactation period promotes optimal milk production and a healthier buffalo.