<![CDATA[This study evaluated the effects of steam flaked of corn and barley grains on the reproductive response, ruminal fermentation characteristics, metabolic disorder, and milk production of postpartum Holstein cows. A total of 40 postpartum Holstein dairy cows were divided into 4 groups (n=10) and fed 1) ground grains (control), 2) steam flacked corn+milled barley, 3) steam flacked barely+milled corn, and 4) steam flaked corn and barley. The animals were treated for 0-30, 30-60, 60-90, and 90-120 days post-calving. Milk yield and compositions, total conception rate, endometritis, pyometra, ruminal fermentation characteristics, ketosis, and acidosis were assessed. This study was conducted in a completely randomized design. The results showed that dietary inclusion of steam flaked grains improved milk yield and compositions during the experimental period compared to the control group (p<0.05), except for cows treated for 0-30d days post-calving. Cows fed steam flaked grains showed a lower occurrence of reproduction and metabolic disorders compared to the control group (p<0.01). Cows fed a combination of steam flaked grains showed better pregnancy rates in the first 100 days and open days of postpartum cows compared to cows in control and a single form of steam flaked barley or corn (p<0.05). Total VFA, acetate, propionate, butyrate, and valerate were higher in cows fed steam flaked compared to the control group (p<0.05). Feeding steam flaked grains is advised for improving reproductive performance, milk variables, and rumen fermentation profiles in dairy cows.]]>
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