A study by the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences and the University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna looked at how heat stress changes milk composition and the metabolic profile of dairy cows.
Key findings
- Significant changes in milk composition, including an increase in the milk fat-to-protein ratio.
- Changes in metabolic indicators such as glucose, albumin and liver enzymes.
- Together these indicate negative energy balance and altered metabolism, including gluconeogenesis and lipolysis — consistent with earlier research.
Recommendations for practice
- Use real-time milk composition monitoring, such as the HerdLine analyser, to detect negative energy balance and metabolic problems early.
- Adjust feeding to maintain energy balance during periods of high THI (temperature-humidity index).
- Carry out regular health checks.
Source: MDPI Agriculture 14(2), 203.