How to combat butterfat depression at turnout

Balanced energy and rumen stability at turnout are vital to protect butterfat levels and fertility

clock • 4 min read
Unpredictable grazing conditions can lead to lower levels of butterfat.
Image:

Unpredictable grazing conditions can lead to lower levels of butterfat.

Each spring, dairy producers face the familiar challenge of balancing rumen function and energy supply as cows transition from winter rations to lush, early-season grass. This period, known for unpredictable...

To continue reading...

Already a member? Login for full access.

Login

New to Farmers Guardian? Register for 1 free article per week or become a member for unlimited access to essential farming news and insights.

article-img-580x358

 

More on Dairy

Why feeding method is important for calves: The role of the oesophageal groove

Why feeding method is important for calves: The role of the oesophageal groove

Getting colostrum into calves quickly is crucial but getting it to the right place is what counts

clock 13 June 2026 • 4 min read
Milking herd hits record low as 190 producers exit dairy sector

Milking herd hits record low as 190 producers exit dairy sector

Latest AHDB milk buyers' survey says favourable cull cow prices and input costs have 'incentivised' people to shift focus

Jane Thynne
clock 12 June 2026 • 2 min read
Tradition drives success of Royal Highland Show award-winning Errington Cheese

Tradition drives success of Royal Highland Show award-winning Errington Cheese

Errington Cheese won three gold awards at last year's Royal Highland Show, with 'Blackmount', a goats' milk lactic cheese, going on to lift the overall dairy produce title. This year, they are heading back to Islington hoping to pick up more silverware

Lynsey Clark
clock 11 June 2026 • 6 min read