The Influence of Feeding Frequency on Ruminal Parameters and Production Response in Dairy Cattle

Abstract

The effect of feeding frequency on ruminal parameters and milk production in dairy cattle was reviewed. Increasing feeding frequency generally resulted in a less variable diurnal profile in ruminal pH. Feeding a TMR more frequently did not result in reduced variation of diurnal pH pattern. Forage to concentrate ratio influenced the volatile fatty acid concentration associated with increased feeding frequency. Generally diets containing higher proportions of concentrate (►60% of DM) showed a higher ruminal acetate to propionate ratio with increased feeding frequency. Parameters such as water intake, microbial activity, ruminal digestion and dilution rates were either not affected or positively influenced by increased feeding frequency. Possible modes of action to increase milk yield may be through enhanced efficiency of microbial synthesis and yield and/or increased escape of potentially degradable protein through increased ruminal dilution rate, and/or increased energy intake. A summary of 9 studies revealed that increasing feeding frequency from 2 to 4, 5 or 6 times daily resulted in a slight increase (1.5%) in milk yield. In eight studies, the average increase in milk fat concentration was 6.8%. The primary effect of increased feeding frequency on fat concentration was associated with diets low or marginal in fiber, high in concentrates, and where milk fat was originally depressed. Increased feeding frequency may be of most potential benefit in early lactation, high-producing cows that are in an energy deficient status, where fat depression is of key importance.