Previous articles covered, “How many cows per robot?” and “How many milkings per robot?” The next step in that discussion is, “How much milk per milking?” 2 variables affect milk per milking – milking frequency, and daily production per cow. Robotic milking systems can milk cows as many times, or as few times, as desired. More frequent milkings in early lactation can result in more milk – as long as feed quality, transition management, cow comfort, and other factors are not limiting. What about cows that are past peak? Can they be milked too frequently? How do we make best use of the capacity of the system?
The capacity of the system is simple math. Previous articles in this series suggested goals of 6,000 pounds per robot and 180 milkings per robot. Dividing 6,000 pounds by 180 milkings results in 33 lbs per milking. 7,000 pounds per robot is over 38 pounds per milking. 5,000 pounds per robot is less than 30 pounds per milking. Look for herd averages between 30 and 35 pounds per milking. The average on your farm might vary depending on production per cow, breed and parity. Cows with smaller udders may produce more milk per day with more frequent milking. On the other end of the spectrum, it might not be practical for a 200 pound cow to milk 6 times per day (but some 200 pound cows do).
Back to the question, “Can we milk a cow to frequently?” The answer is yes. Milkings that yield less than 20 to 25 pounds for post-peak cows are inefficient milkings. The industry accepts 20 pounds as inefficient, but as systems reach capacity, 25 pounds will be more realistic. Inefficient milkings waste robot time. Prep time is nearly constant regardless of the amount milk harvested. The system is more efficient when each prep produces more milk. There are cow factors too. Teats are easier for the robot to find when udders are full – especially if the rear teats are close. The milking experience is better for the cow with a full udder. Each time the teat is opened, there is increased risk of mastitis so it is better not to open the teat when it is not necessary. It is possible to milk cows too frequently.
What do you do if the yield per milking is too high or too low? The next article will discuss using milking permission, or milk access, to challenge early lactation cows with more frequent milking, while restricting low producing cows to avoid inefficient milkings. If you have not already subscribed to the newsletter, you can subscribe now at www.cow-corner.co. Check the “Consult Corner”How tab for articles you may have missed. Click the “How it Works” tab to learn more about Cow Corner services.
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