Bilaspur: As the temperature drops in winter, the health of cattle is significantly affected. In this season they need more energy, warmth and nutritious elements. Due to wrong eating habits or giving cold water, problems like low milk production, loss of appetite, fever, cough, cold and weakness increase in cattle. Veterinarian of Bilaspur District Veterinary Hospital, Dr. Ram Otalwar explains what changes are necessary in the diet of cattle in winter and what kind of food is most beneficial to give them.
provide energy rich diet
According to Dr. Otalwar, cattle need extra energy in winter. For this, jaggery, grains, choke, maize, cake and oily substances should be included in their food. It helps in keeping the body warm and removes weakness.
Green and nutritious fodder is very important
Green fodder is available in winter, it should be fed regularly. Barseem, oats, napier and other green fodder provide adequate nutrition to the cattle. This increases both the quality and quantity of milk.
Include straw, dry fodder and mineral mixture
Along with green fodder, dry fodder is also necessary. Wheat bran, paddy straw and chari strengthen the digestion of cattle. Also, mineral mixture and salt brick should be given daily, so that there is no deficiency of calcium and essential minerals.
give lukewarm water
Dr. Otalwar says that it is most important to give lukewarm water to the cattle in the cold season. Drinking cold water can disturb digestion and reduce water intake. Therefore, make sure to give lukewarm water in the morning and evening.
Special attention to milking cattle
Milk-giving cows and buffaloes should be given a diet rich in proteins and minerals. It is beneficial to include grains-bran, soybean cake, rapeseed cake and jaggery in it. Due to this, milk production remains stable and the body remains warm.
What to feed animals in winter
