What do a high-performance car and a dairy cow have in common? Well, it’s all about the details. A luxury car needs the right road and maintenance to perform at its best. Similarly, dairy cows need proper care, environment, and management to reach their full potential. Chlem Nash, Technical Manager for Novus International, highlights the importance of this connection. Advancements in genetics and nutrition have driven impressive gains in dairy production. Nash believes we must focus on the next step. Improving management and housing will support these powerhouse animals for long-term success.
“In the last 40 years, cows have become genetic powerhouses, producing twice as much milk as they did decades ago,” Nash explained. “However, despite these advancements, we’re seeing more health issues, including increased lameness and reduced fertility. It’s like taking a Mercedes-Benz and putting it on a gravel road—it might look good, but it won’t perform well without the proper road and maintenance.”
Nash stressed that nutrition and genetics in dairy cows have vastly improved. However, their environmental management has not kept pace. “We’re feeding cows the best nutrition ever, balancing amino acids, minerals, and other key components. But if we don’t focus on their housing and comfort, we’re not maximizing their potential.”
The challenge lies in aging barns and outdated housing systems. “Many barns are now 20, 30, or even 50 years old, and today’s freestalls were designed in the 1960s,” Nash said. “While some new designs have emerged, many don’t prioritize cow comfort and instead cram in more cows, which defeats the purpose of providing a space where cows can rest and feel comfortable.”
Nash acknowledged that farmers are doing a great job with genetics and nutrition, but the next big step is improving housing and management. “Just like a high-performance car needs regular oil changes and tire care, cows need consistent attention to their comfort and environment to avoid breakdowns.”
She also cautioned against focusing on quick fixes that may not address the root cause. “Farmers may be tempted to make easy adjustments, like moving neck rails or changing the feed bunk, but these fixes may not solve bigger issues with the stalls or the overall environment.”
To improve management, Nash encouraged farmers to “think like a cow.” She explained, “Imagine how she interacts with her environment every day. Consider where to position fans, how bedding affects traction, and how she feels in her space. If you don’t consider these factors, you may miss critical issues.”
Finally, Nash recommended bringing in outside perspectives to help identify potential blind spots. “When you’re surrounded by the same cows and the same environment daily, it’s easy to normalize problems. Bringing in fresh eyes can help uncover issues that may have been overlooked.”