Dairy cow comfort influences feed intake
Did you know that beyond genetics and feed quality, the performance of your dairy cows also depends on the conditions in which they eat? Because the utilization of the ration also relies on the comfort of the cows at the time of distribution, Bioret Agri has developed the FEEDING STEP, an innovative piece of equipment that offers the ideal conditions for a quality, well-utilized meal.
To ensure that each element of the ration contributes to performance, the cow must have access to its feed in a relaxing environment, without disturbances. Stress affects dairy productivity by reducing both the amount of ration absorbed and the efficiency of its assimilation. Here are the key points to ensure a quality meal and good digestion, guaranteeing milk production that lives up to its promises:
- Limit competition and jostling from other cows by installing partitions every two spaces between the cows at the feed bunk.
- Avoid external disturbances such as repeated disruptions caused by the passage of the scraper.
- Maintain clean and dry feeding areas for more secure footing and a more stable standing position.
More serenity for feed intake to satiety
An innovation from the specialist in cow comfort in buildings, the FEEDING STEP is a composite platform to be installed in front of the feed fence. Offering a surface slightly elevated compared to the corridor, this equipment, made of plastic blocks covered with rubber, allows the cow to no longer be disturbed by the passage of the scraper. Flexible and non-slip, the FEEDING STEP is adapted to the feet of dairy cows, unlike a hard cement floor. The device works with dividers every two animals, which avoids competition between cows for access to the ration. An environment that promotes relaxation during meals, your dairy cows thus spend more time feeding, until they are full! And it is the assurance that each of them eats their fill!
Cleaner floors for healthy feet
It is known that clean floors help reduce leg problems, the leading cause of culling in France. With its 3% slope at the end of the step, which ensures the evacuation of urine, FEEDING STEP thus contributes to maintaining the cleanliness of the feeding area. By evacuating waste more quickly towards the corridor, the Bioret equipment offers the cow a serene environment at the feed fence. Tranquility, comfort and cleanliness: a winning combination for a meal that will make the most of the ration and release 100% of its milk production potential.
Preserving the profitability of the operation
The FEEDING STEP has been designed to preserve the profitability of the farm, by limiting production losses and early culling. Not to mention that the device also facilitates the work of the farmer, especially during care. It should be noted that the interest of this step in front of the feed fence has been praised by several international studies (Agroscope – Switzerland, Sova et al. 2013, Proudfoot et al. 2009, etc.). The FEEDING STEP was also distinguished by receiving the Best Product 2019 award from AgroFarm.
The installation of the FEEDING STEP is quick (60 places equipped in 6 hours) and does not require major work. With a width of 1650 mm, the equipment can even find its place in an occupied building. FEEDING STEP is guaranteed for an optimal experience for 10 years.
