
04/01/13, 08:03 AM
|
|
|
|
Join Date: Aug 2002
Location: NY
Posts: 2,276
|
|
|
More milking questions and some musings
Used the search feature a lot! Lots of good info.
Milking is going well. It sure paid off to touch the heifer's udder for many months before calving. Teaching her to lead was another good pay off. The calf, Phil, was born Tues. and mom has not kicked once. Took my jersey bull, Stew, in with her to see what she would do. She just stood calmly, tied up, and watched him. He did not nurse (he isn't weaned yet, soon). So, since the two calves are about the same size, months apart in age, think I will try putting the calves together for a bit. Phil will get his first halter lesson today or tomorrow. If I can start the seperation of mom and Phil it will facilitate the start of oad milking. Phil started to nibble hay on day 2. I really have enjoyed this "cow tv". The interaction between the two and then the three of us has been a topic of lots of conversations.
How long does edema usually last? It is better but still quite pronounced in the front part of the udder.
How much more feed should mom be getting? I have increased her hay by at least 50%, not sure if it is enough.
Is milking time critical with the calf? I need to milk a bit early to get to calling hours one night. Seems like she should be ok?
Big drop in milk to take yesterday and today. How long does it take for mom to up production to match growth spurt?
Reading here, it seems that oad milking starts anywhere from days to four months into lactation. Any particular likes/dislikes as to starting it?
__________________
tab
|