Species
Ruminants
Natural additives for efficient cattle breeding
Major issues in
Dairy and beef production
Like other animal productions, the quest for high performance, especially in high-performance dairy ruminants, requires a ration with a high energy and protein density.
Enjeux
The energy deficit of
Dairy cows in early lactation
There are several critical phases, in particular the beginning of lactation, when the female dairy has an energy deficit due to an insufficient intake. A sufficient intake during this critical period guarantees a good lactation curve and good fertility; in fact, fertility is directly linked to a positive energy balance. During this period, there is a risk of specific pathologies such as ketosis and mastitis. The health of the animals, which is more fragile during this period, requires an effective prevention strategy, in which plant-based active ingredients have their rightful place.
The fragility of
Young ruminants at birth
Ruminant fertility is low compared to other livestock species and young ruminants are fragile at birth. Successful rearing of young ruminants is crucial whether they are breastfed or fed with a milk replacer. Colostrum quality, vaccination programs and good weaning management are key elements to success.
A polluting and toxic gas
Ammonia emissions
Ruminants are able to digest plant cellulose, while monogastric animals cannot do, allowing them to get the most from feed. This fermentative digestive capacity is also a source of greenhouse gases such as methane (cattle breeding, in particular, is responsible for 14.5% of greenhouse gas emissions according to the FAO). One of the challenges for ruminant breeding is to increase herds’ feed efficiency. This translates into better yields, fewer emissions into the atmosphere and a beneficial impact on the environment. Ruminants ‘breeding is also essential for the good maintenance of rangelands, mountain pastures and natural meadows.
Nutrition to face
Challenges in ruminants production
Nor-Feed’s solutions, which include specific additives for ruminants and dairy cows, target improving feed efficiency and other goals, especially regarding health:
- Compensate oxidative stress
- Improve product quality
- Contribute to coccidial risk management
- Improve feed palatability
- Calm animals naturally
