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228. Production diseases (mastitis, lameness and infertility) have been described as conditions arising as a consequence of the modern pressures to raise milk yield per cow. All can be attributed, in varying degrees, to the genetic make-up of the cow and the manner in which the cow is fed and kept.
229. Major increases in milk yield in recent years have been due mainly to changes in genetics and nutrition. Feeding has become more refined as scientific knowledge has increased and a wider range of feeds has become available. There has been a move away from the more traditional forages of grass, grass silage, hay, fodder crops (e.g. kale, stubble turnips), towards maize, treated grains and whole crops, and by-products of the human food industry (e.g. "straights").
230. The use of feed of animal origin involves a risk of disease transmission. Very careful studies are needed to demonstrate its safety and to specify feed treatment procedures.
231. Prior to feeding conserved forages (e.g. hay and silage) and other bulky feeds, a representative sample would normally be analysed to allow correct supplementation to match the animals requirements. Feeding can be monitored and adjustment made as necessary. As a general rule, cows should not be scouring as this is detrimental to general hygiene and contributes to diseases such as lameness and mastitis.