Are the recommended proportions of mature body weight being achieved in different stages of growth in Brazilian Holstein and Jersey dairy cattle?

Abstract

The relationship between live BW (LBW) and mature BW (MBW) is critical for formulating optimal diets in dairy cattle, particularly regarding target BW (TBW) growth. Current nutritional guidelines suggest dairy cows reach MBW by the third calving (based on Holstein data), whereas beef cows reach it by the fourth calving. This study investigated LBW variations among different parities in Holstein and Jersey lactating cows, assessing the applicability of established proportion of MBW (%MBW) values across breeds. An observational study was conducted in dairy herds in Paraná State, Southern Brazil, comprising 19 Holstein and 9 Jersey herds, collecting LBW data at various growth stages. Nonlinear mixed models indicated MBW values of 705 kg for Holsteins and 460 kg for Jerseys, with Jersey cows showing faster maturation rate. Our findings revealed both breeds achieved recommended TBW verified by the %MBW at critical growth stages, but primiparous Jerseys exceeded the recommended values at first calving. Notably, while Holstein cows reach MBW by their third lactation, Jersey cows seem to achieve it by the fourth lactation, similar to beef cattle. This highlights the need for revised nutritional standards that better reflect the growth potential of different dairy breeds.