DausaWith the onset of winter season, the problem of decreasing milk production has started coming to the fore in the district, Many cattle farmers in rural areas said that the milk yield of their cows and buffaloes has continuously decreased in the last few days, In this context, Veterinary Officer Jal Singh Meena said that cold has a direct impact on the health and milk production of animals, Drinking less water in winter, change in diet, lack of sunlight, digestive upset and catching cold are the main reasons, (81 words)
Meena told that in winter, animals avoid drinking cold water, due to which the amount of water remains half as compared to normal days. Drinking less water reduces the nutritional level in their body and milk production decreases. He advised that cattle farmers should feed lukewarm water to the animals in winter, so that they can easily drink enough water. (68 words)
Falling production due to lack of diet
If animals do not get granular and balanced diet in winter, they reduce milk production. The vet recommended this daily diet in winter:
- 200–250 grams wheat chapar
- 200–250 grams gram chopper
- corn or other grain
- Jaggery
- 50 grams mineral mixture
- 50 grams salt
He told that if this diet is given continuously for 10 days, the energy deficiency of the animals goes away and the milk production starts improving. (81 words)
Protection from sun and cold is necessary
In winter, animals get less sunlight, due to which both their body heat and digestion are affected. Meena said that animals should be kept in sunlight for 2 to 4 hours every day, so that the energy level remains maintained and milk production remains better. When animals feel cold, they eat less and milk also decreases. Therefore, it has been advised not to tie them in the open at night, to block the wind in the shed, to lay sacks or dry straw at the bottom and to use woolen protective material for small calves. (92 words)
Poor digestion is also a major reason
Problems like indigestion, constipation and flatulence increase in winter. For this he suggested this home remedy:
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 2–3 teaspoons celery
- 100–150 grams jaggery
By feeding this mixture for 3-4 days, digestion becomes normal. Meena said that if animals appear lethargic, drink less water or suddenly reduce milk, then immediate attention should be paid to diet and water. With proper care and management, milk production can be kept stable even in winter.
