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Subject: Livestock Production and Management × Author: GEETHA. N × End date: 2021 × Start date: 2021 ×
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    ThesisItemOpen Access
    EVALUATION OF DIFFERENT BEDDING SYSTEMS ON COMFORT AND PERFORMANCE OF CROSSBRED DAIRY COWS
    (Kerala Veterinary and Animal Science University, Pookode, 2021-09-06) GEETHA. N; Balusami. C
    The present study was undertaken to evaluate the different bedding systems on comfort and performance of crossbred dairy cows. Twenty four crossbred cows with six animals in each group at cattle farm was selected for the study and carried out for one lactation period spread over three different seasons such as summer months (Feb-May), monsoon months (June-Sep) and post monsoon months (Oct Jan). The control group (T1) was maintained in concrete floor without any bedding materials. In (T2) rubber mats of 1.2 m × 1.8 m × 0.025m area were provided on concrete floor. In (T3) coir pith and (T4) Dried solid manure (DSM) on concrete floor was provided at the rate of 7.5 cm thickness as bedding. Based on the results of the study cows housed on coir pith and DSM had prolonged lying times with higher cow comfort index compared to other bedding materials. Coir pith and DSM bedded cows improved cow hygiene, BCS and body weight gain with profound increase in milk production and composition. Coir pith and DSM bedding provided cooler surface which led to efficient heat dissipation from cow’s body. Milk cortisol level was lower in cows on coir pith and DSM groups due to adequate lying times which reduced stress. Frequent replace of bedding lowered APC, CC and TYMC with normal SCC and physiological parameters. Coir pith and DSM bedding reduced the risk of lameness and mastitis and increased the ability of the animals to express their natural behaviour. The nutrient value of coir pith and DSM after the use as bedding materials were enhanced, which could be used as an excellent organic manure for organic cultivation. Use of coir pith as barn bedding material is an important management practice for improving milk production, hygiene and health of cows. This also reduced stress level, incidence of disease and improves the comfort and overall welfare of dairy cows. Thus, coir pith and dried solid manure as bedding materials could be recommended to the dairy farmers compared to rubber mats and concrete floor bedding for improving cow comfort and improved milk production.