The milk price is again in the headlines and it is perpetually sad to see such a quality product used as a loss leader between the retailers.

Selling product at such a low level devalues it and makes a mockery of the hard work that goes into its production. I wonder if there is any real evidence to show that such low pricing attracts people into a store.

The biggest problem for farmers responding to this price is that cows are, of course, living creatures. Adjusting a biological process not only takes time, but can have an impact beyond any immediate change in yield. Dairy cattle are fed specific diets depending on their point in the lactation cycle and it is a delicate bit of science to get this just right.

One of the concerns of the effect of a drop in milk price is that some people may start to make adjustments to their cows to take this into account.

While reducing feed can have an impact on yield and help with feed costs, any benefit can be short lived. Too rapid a change can itself be damaging and there are certain points in a cow’s lactation where it can have a real impact on her future production. For instance, if the change in diet results in a cow being too lean when she calves, this can mean a delay in her getting back in calf, which reduces her overall production of milk.

A better way to make savings is to look at other aspects of cow health. High cell counts and recurrent lameness are two particular problems that are the cause of regular long-term losses. Culling these animals will produce a greater saving in feed costs, as the feed is then utilised by the most productive animals.

Many of the common diseases such as BVD also have an impact on feed efficiency and investing through vaccination can be a real benefit.

If you are thinking of changes based on the milk price, it is best to discuss this with your vet first, as the changes need to have long-term benefits as well as short-term ones.

Iain Richards

Independent Vet