Monitor cow signals
Simple, regular observations remain one of the most effective tools for identifying early signs of rumen instability. They often appear before more obvious performance losses, allowing for earlier intervention. It is important to note that one indicator alone does not indicate SARA, but the combination of signals might.
Key indicators include:
- Loose, bubbly dung or visible undigested fibre
- Reduced cudding rates (less than 60-65% of cows ruminating at rest)
- Low rumen fill scores
- Fat:protein ratio less than or equal to 1.15:1
- Protein % higher than butterfat % in more than 10% of herd
- Milk protein falls by >0.3% in a week
- Butterfat falls by 0.3-0.5% in a week
How SARA relates to optimising milk price:
Alongside the typical risk of SARA, lush grass can contain higher levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) - or specific oils which would broadly be classed under the umbrella term “fat”. They are particularly present during periods of rapid growth or plant stress due to extreme weather.
Whilst excellent for human health and the ‘spreadability’ of butter, high PUFA levels decrease butterfat %. Under stable rumen conditions these can mostly be processed with minimal impact, but if rumen pH is low, the fat-suppressing effect of oils/PUFAs are amplified.
Heat stress can further compound the issue. Even moderate temperatures of around 15 degrees Celsius combined with high humidity can reduce intakes, increase buffer loss through drooling and alter feeding behaviour. Such impacts increase the risk of rumen instability and put further pressure on milk solids.
Practical tips for managing rumen function
- Complementary compounds should balance, not replace, grazed grass in the diet
- Ensure sufficient fibre of the right type (i.e. highly digestible fibre from sugar beet pulp or soya hulls)
- Provide slower degrading sources of energy to complement rapidly available protein in grass – primarily starch from cereals, and bypass protein
- Feed Actisaf® Sc 47 live yeast probiotic
Actisaf® is designed to support the rumen microbiome by encouraging the growth of fibre-digesting microbes and those that utilise lactic acid. Through this action, it helps stabilise rumen pH through biological buffering and promotes more consistent fermentation. This supports cows to make better use of available nutrients, helping to maintain performance and milk solids during challenging periods.
