The metabolic profile involves blood sampling a representative sample of the breeding herd at key stages in their production cycle. It is the best way to ask the cows what they think of their ration before it’s too late.
It is common for suckler cows to need additional protein (DUP) in the last month of pregnancy to help with milk production and colostrum quality.
In addition to energy and protein levels, results can also provide disease diagnosis or insights into how to direct diagnostic investigation. Mineral status is also assessed, ensuring the key minerals are being consumed at adequate levels.
Herds which have been using metabolic profiling as a service have experienced reduced levels of neonatal calf disease including, joint ill, scours and pneumonia.
When combined with body condition scoring and bull fertility testing, diet manipulation has also led to improved herd fertility rates.
The power of metabolic profiling is to identify any deficiency in the ration in time to make adjustments thus helping to ensure a successful outcome.