Behavior of Lactating Dairy Cows during Total Confinement

Abstract

Daytime activity of four lactating Holstein cows housed in total confinement in stanchion stalls for about 14 wk was observed continuously, and activities such as eating, drinking, resting, ruminating, and socializing were recorded. Observations were by closed-circuit television and a switch panel connected to an event recorder. During the 15h of daytime, the cows spent an average of 45% of the time lying, 26% eating, 22% ruminating, 1% drinking, and 2% socializing. Most eating occurred during standing (98.4%) while most rumination occurred during lying (59%). The distribution of these activities by time of day was similar to that of pastured dairy cows. Periods of eating, drinking, and social activity were most intense during and shortly after the morning and afternoon milking and feeding times. Conversely, periods of greatest recumbency, rumination, and rest occurred between feeding time from midday to late afternoon. Thus, in spite of prolonged total confinement, the four cows continued to exhibit behavioral activities (duration and distribution) which are typical of less confined cattle.