Question

Find the correct answer based on following statements:
Statement (I): Feeding in preparation to calving is called 'steaming-up'.
Statement (II): 'Steaming-up' increases daily milk yield, lengthens lactation period and also increases butter fat percentage.

• A. Both Statement (I) and Statement (II) are correct.
• B. Both Statement (I) and Statement (II) are incorrect.
• C. Statement (I) is correct but Statement (II) is incorrect.
• D. Statement (I) is incorrect but Statement (II) is correct.

Hint:

Remember that "steaming up" (pre-calving concentrate feeding) and "flushing" (extra feeding before breeding to increase ovulation rate) are two distinct pre-partum feeding practices that are highly tested in livestock management.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
"Steaming up" is a specialized pre-partum feeding practice applied to pregnant cows and heifers during the last 2 to 3 weeks of gestation (the transition period) to prepare them for the upcoming calving and lactation.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us analyze both statements:

Statement (I): During the late dry period, the nutrient demands of the rapidly growing fetus increase significantly, while the cow's feed intake capacity decreases due to abdominal crowding.
"Steaming up" involves feeding a gradually increasing amount of concentrate feed (usually 1.5 to 3.0 kg per day) along with good quality forage before calving. Thus, Statement (I) iscorrect.

Statement (II): Steaming up provides several physiological and production benefits:
1. It replenishes the cow's body reserves, allowing her to easily navigate the negative energy balance common in early lactation. This directly increases peak and daily milk yields.
2. It helps maintain high milk production throughout the cycle, lengthening the lactation period.
3. It ensures proper synthesis of milk fat precursors, helping to maintain or increase the butterfat percentage during early lactation.
4. It adapts the rumen microbes to a concentrate-rich diet, preventing metabolic disorders like ketosis and acidosis after calving. Thus, Statement (II) iscorrect.
Since both statements are correct, Option (A) is the correct choice.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The correct option is (A).