Dairy cattle are cattle cows bred for the ability to produce large quantities of milk, from which dairy products are made. Dairy cows generally are of the species Bos taurus. Historically, there was little distinction between dairy cattle and beef cattle, with the same stock often being used for both meat and milk production. Today, the bovine industry is more specialized and most dairy cattle have been bred to produce large volumes of milk. The United States dairy herd produced 83.9 billion kg (185 billion lbs) of milk in 2007, up from 52.6 billion kg (116 billion lbs) in 1950, yet there were only about 9 million cows on U.S. dairy farms—about 13 million fewer than there were in 1950.
Nutrition plays an important role in keeping cattle healthy and strong. Implementing an adequate nutrition program can also improve milk production and reproductive performance. Nutrient requirements may not be the same depending on the animal’s age and stage of production.
Forages, which refer especially to hay or straw, are the most common type of feed used. Cereal grains, as the main contributors of starch to diets, are important in meeting the energy needs of dairy cattle. Barley is one example of grain that is extensively used around the world. Barley is grown in temperate to subarctic climates, and it is transported to those areas lacking the necessary amounts of grain. Although variations may occur, in general, barley is an excellent source of balanced amounts of protein, energy, and fiber.
The gigantic Holstein steer – that could be the world’s tallest cow. He measures 6 foot 4 inches tall and weighs 2300 pounds. He eats 100 pounds of hay, 15 pounds of gran, drinks 100 gallons of water and turns out 150 pounds of droppings every single day. (Sounds like a nightmare!)
His owners are attempting to get the Guinness World Records certify him as the world’s tallest steer.the gigantic Holstein steer – that could be the world’s tallest cow. He measures 6 foot 4 inches tall and weighs 2300 pounds. He eats 100 pounds of hay, 15 pounds of gran, drinks 100 gallons of water and turns out 150 pounds of droppings every single day. (Sounds like a nightmare!)
