“A minimum of 28% Neutral Detergent Fiber (NDF) in the dairy ration should be provided to stimulate the rumen buffering action.“

Dr. Sandeep Jugran

Technical Manager

Carus Laboratories Pvt. Ltd

The onset of the monsoon season begins in July and brings rain and dust storms. During such times, the animals have to be protected from illness caused by the effects of hot weather coupled with high humidity. This causes an increase in temperature humidity index and the effects of heat stress are magnified to a great extent. The stress is further exacerbated by the presence of ticks, flies, and mosquitoes at this time. General Management guidelines to be followed:

  • Deworming of animals before the onset of the monsoon should be done.
  • Mosquito nets or fly traps can be installed on the farm to control the menace of insects. Periodic insecticidal baits and sprays can effectively minimize flies and other insect populations.
  • Vaccination of animals against diseases like F. M. D. (Foot and Mouth Disease), B. Q. (Black Quarter), and H. S. (Haemorrhagic Septicaemia), Enterotoxaemia, etc. should be done prior to the monsoon season.
  • Reducing heat stress: The first priority should be to provide shade to prevent direct heat and rain exposure. Proper air movement can be assured via trees and/or fans. Additives like yeast improve dry matter intake while toxin binders protect from mycotoxins and endotoxins. Moreover, additives like sodium bicarbonate, potassium carbonates, and magnesium oxide can be added to the diet to maintain ruminal pH. Adding fats to the diet increases the energy density of the diet and compensates for reduced dry matter intake.
  • Mastitis is a common occurrence in the rainy season. Certain steps can be taken to prevent mastitis, such as pre and post dipping with antiseptic liquids (povidone iodine & glycerine in the ratio of 3:1 as post dip), proper sanitation and preventing wet floor surface, feeding just after milking to prevent sitting of animals before closure of teat sphincters, lime application on the resting floor, etc.
  • Ration: A minimum of 28% Neutral Detergent Fiber (NDF) in the dairy ration should be provided to stimulate the rumen buffering action via mastication and saliva flow. This will reduce the chances of ruminal acidosis. Adding fats to the diet with high quality protein increases the nutrient density of the diet and compensates for reduced dry matter intake.
  • Mineral Supplementation: A lower dry matter intake and higher mineral losses in sweating and urination call for higher dietary inclusion of minerals. Furthermore, the requirement for some minerals, such as zinc, potassium, chromium, magnesium, sodium, etc. increases during heat stress.
  • Water is an important, inexpensive nutrient. Fresh water availability should be ensured on the farm, especially after milking. This is because cows drink about 50% of their water requirement after milking.

During the humid season, the aforementioned management systems have been found to be effective in reducing stress caused by humidity and thus eventually increasing animal productivity.