Timing of feeding: a postmodern management strategy to modulate chronophysiological rhythms in rumen fermentation kinetics

Abstract

Timing of eating is a multiscience that mediates global animal and human physiology and metabolism. The objective is to determine effects of providing a total mixed ration at either 0900 h or 2100 h on rhythmic rumen fermentation and passage kinetics. Four multiparous and four primiparous Holstein cows were used in a cross-over design study with two 6-week periods. Each period had a three-week adaptation period. Rumen ammonia concentrations were lower in primiparous cows fed at 2100 h vs. 0900 h. Rumen propionate was lower and the acetate to propionate ratio was higher in multiparous cows fed at 2100 h vs. 0900 h. Evening-fed cows tended to reach a greater rumen volume than morning-fed cows. Findings suggest that shifting feeding time from 0900 to 2100 h altered rhythmic rumen fermentation kinetics and volume. Therefore, feeding timing can be used as a feasible management strategy to modulate rumen fermentation rhythms in high-producing dairy cows.