Feed more frequently

In addition, there is always fresh feed at the feed fence, and you can adjust the amount of feed depending on conditions in the barn and outside.

Fresh feed at all times for optimal rumination

Giving smaller quantities of feed more often means that cows always have access to fresh, tasty feed at the feed fence, and they have less opportunity to be selective over their feed. The ration cows eat is therefore more in line with what they need, including that for submissive cows. The latter can come to the fence to eat at their own time, without being chased away or having to eat feed left over by others which is less balanced.

As a result, every cow receives sufficient nutrients for optimal feed ingestion and maximum production.

Flexible feeding

More frequent feeding also means flexible feeding: not at fixed intervals, but when necessary. When cows are grazing outside, the feeding will stop, and only resume when the animals come back in. 

This means that animals are fed as necessary, and the amount of residual food is reduced, both of which have a positive impact on your bottom line.

Cow health

Good for the rumen
More frequent feeding leads to a stable pH level in the rumen and good rumen health. Feeding smaller portions means less selection. The ration eaten is balanced and reflects requirements. That is also good for stabilising the pH level, and helps cows get the most out of the feed they eat. This in turn improves health, fertility and production.

If cows only eat once or twice a day, they ingest a large amount of fodder, which decreases the pH level in the rumen considerably. This can result in subclinical rumen acidosis which damages the rumen wall.

Good for hooves
Always having good feed within reach prevents unnecessary stretching of the neck, and the resulting pressure on front legs. In addition, there is less competition by the feed fence: animals lower in rank are no longer chased away, and no longer make sudden stressful movements with their front legs. Both these situations reduce the risk of hoof-related health problems.

Higher milk yields

More frequent feeding makes cows more active: they go to the feed fence more often, and ruminate more. If the system is combined with a Lely Astronaut, the number of visits to the milking robot, and milk production, also increase.

Feeding more often pays back.