From calf to cow
A consistent feeding programme and a single source of insight
The foundations of a good dairy cow are not laid at the moment she first enters the milking robot. This happens often much earlier. During a calf’s first weeks of life, the groundwork is laid for how she will develop, how efficiently she will utilise feed later on, and how resiliently she will cope with the challenges of life as a dairy cow. Those who understand and support this journey from calf to cow are building a future-proof herd. At Lely, we therefore do not look at stand-alone solutions, but at the cow’s entire lifespan – from calf to adult milk production in the barn. With solutions such as the Lely Calm calf feeder and the Lely Vector automatic feeding system, we support dairy farmers at every stage. The data and insights generated by these solutions are brought together in Lely Horizon. This creates one connected narrative, one clear overview and one partner to build on.
A strong start for a calf can have a lifetime impact
Research and practical experience suggest that nutrition and management during the early stages of life can influence later performance. Calves that are fed consistently and according to their individual needs during early life may develop more steadily, support balanced rumen development, and are often associated with improved performance later in life. Not because they are ‘pushed’ harder, but because their foundations are well supported. What is important here is not only the feeding itself, but also the data that is generated. Drinking frequency, intake, and deviations can provide indications of the animal’s vitality. This information forms the basis for a lifelong data record.
The Lely Calm supports this strong start by helping to feed calves accurately, hygienically, and according to an individual feeding schedule. Feeding behaviour is continuously monitored, allowing deviations to be identified at an early stage. Such signals may indicate potential health issues. By responding to these in good time, we can help minimise developmental delays.
From young stock to dairy cow: continuity in feeding
As the calf grows from young stock to a dairy cow, its needs change, but the philosophy remains the same. Here too, it is all about consistency, customisation and tranquility. This is precisely where the Lely Vector automatic feeding system comes into its own.
Frequent and accurate feeding can contribute to stable feed intake, healthier rumen function, and more efficient utilization of the ration. This can translate into a calmer environment in the barn and better feed optimisation.
The difference lies in the combination of technology and insights. The Vector system records what is loaded, mixed and dispensed. This data not only supports day-to-day decision-making but can also help track trends over time. This creates greater continuity in feeding, from young stock to adult cows.
Insight across the cow’s entire lifespan
What sets Lely apart is that data from different stages is brought together in Lely Horizon. Here, feed data, animal behaviour and performance are consolidated into a single overview as a tool to enable better-informed choices.
By combining data across multiple life stages, you can gain insights that go beyond mere snapshots. Correlations may become apparent between rearing, feeding strategy and later performance. This can help in recognising patterns in animal health and efficiency, and in making targeted adjustments accordingly. Lely Horizon can thus be used as a management tool and knowledge platform that grows alongside the farm.
One partner, one vision for automation in dairy farming
For dairy farmers, this can contribute to greater clarity and simplicity. Choosing Lely Calm, Lely Vector and Lely Horizon means choosing a single partner to work with. A single vision for feeding, a single service network and a single point of contact that oversees the whole operation. A centralised approach can provide peace of mind, particularly at a time when dairy farming is becoming increasingly complex.
Lely develops solutions that complement and reinforce one another, precisely because the farm is viewed as a whole. Not milking, feeding or managing in isolation, but with everything working in harmony.
From the first milk intake to the final lactation
Ultimately, everything comes down to the same principle: a cow that feels well generally performs more consistently and can remain healthy for longer. By starting with the calf and consistently continuing this approach right through to the adult dairy cow, we can contribute to a herd that is not only productive but also future proof.
Just as with the Lely Astronaut, it’s all about trust. The cow chooses her moment; the system provides support, and the farmer maintains an overview. From calf to cow, from the first milk intake to the last lactation, with data as the connecting factor and technology as the supporting force in the background.
