Association between feed sorting and the prevalence of metabolic disorders in Hungarian large-scale dairy herds.

Abstract

This research communication describes the possible association between feed sorting and the risk of metabolic disorders in dairy cows. Feed sorting, that is selecting smaller size TMR particles over longer length fibers, can lead to imbalanced energy input. In addition, sorting can lead to lower nutritive value of leftover TMR. To detect a possible relationship between TMR sorting and the occurrence of metabolic disorders in large-scale herds, TMR separation and metabolic profile tests were performed in 22 Hungarian dairies. Feed sorting was defined as >5% alteration in the mass proportion of any of the TMR fractions between the time of feed distribution and 5-6 h later. The prevalence of ketosis and subclinical acidosis differed between feed sorting and non-sorting groups. Inhomogeneous TMR seems to be a predisposing factor for imbalanced energy status. TMR homogeneity measurements should be routinely included in herd health monitoring.