The Importance of Monitoring Rumen Fill

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Mark Yearsley (South West)

Maximised Rumen Fill Equals Optimum Dry Matter Intake (DMI) which in turn equates to: –

  • Maximum milk or meat production from the ration fed.
  • Increased rumen health through rumination and feed breakdown.
  • Healthy Happy Cows.

Low rumen fill score will also indicate that the is an underlying problem with the animal which could be a health problem or not enough feed for her to access.

Score 1.

The rumen fossa behind the last rib is more than one hand width deep, the skin fold from the hook bone goes vertically downwards – this cow has eaten little or nothing in over one week.

Score 2.

There is more of a prominent triangle behind the last rib, this is called the ‘Danger Triangle’ and this is telling you this cow needs immediate attention.

Score 3.

The rumen fossa behind the last rib is still visible, the skin fold from the hook bone is not visible. This is the ideal score – 3/3.5 for a milking cow who has had sufficient intake, and the feed spends the correct time within the rumen.

Score 4.

Behind the last rib there is no rumen fossa visible, the skin under the short rib curves outwards. This is the correct score for cows nearing the end of lactation and the early dry period.

Score 5.

Nothing is visible as the rumen is full to capacity and the skin over the whole belly is quite tight. This is the correct score for dry cows and close up cows – maximising rumen fill.

This is a very practical observation check which tells you how happy your cows are.

If you would like to learn more about maximising cow performance through Cow Signals training, then please contact  Mark at  myearsley@fcgagric.com or Tel: 07773 027999.

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