Effect of Feeding Yeast Culture on Productive and Reproductive Performance of Dairy Cows

A 105-day feed trial was conducted to evaluate the effect of supplementation of yeast culture on body condition score, body weight changes, dry matter intake, milk production and its composition and reproductive performance in lactating crossbred cows. Twelve multiparous crossbred cows were divided in to two groups (n=6); control group received ration composing of forages and concentrate (60: 40). The experimental group received the same diet supplemented with 10 g of yeast (Saccharomyces Cerevisiae) per cow per day. The study showed that supplementation with yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae tended (P<0.06) to increase milk production, 4% fat corrected milk (FCM), energy corrected milk (ECM), solid corrected milk (SCM) and milk energy (ME). There was a significant increase of fat (P<0.01) and protein (P<0.05) content also. However, dry matter intake (DMI), body weight and body condition score (BCS) were similar among the groups. Feed efficiency in terms of milk yield/DMI (kg/kg), ECM/DMI (kg/kg) and SCM/DMI (kg/kg) was similar among treatments. Supplementation of yeast culture did not show any effect on duration required for commencement of cyclicity and conception rate. In conclusion, yeast seems to have positive effect on milk production and its fat and protein composition in lactating cows.