Einfluss von elastischem Bodenbelag auf Milchmenge, Fett, Eiweiß und Zellgehalt bei Kühen in Laufstallhaltung

Abstract. Title of the paper: Effect of soft flooring in free stalls on milk yield, fat, protein and somatic cell counts in dairy cattle
Research conducted at the Experimental Farm Oberschleißheim focused on comparing milk yield, fat, protein and somatic cell counts in dairy cattle housed in free stalls with concrete slatted floor and rubber mats covering the concrete slatted floor. Data were collected from 49 cows in 53 lactation periods, which were divided into experimental group (n = 26) on rubber matted floor (EBG) and control group (n = 27) on concrete slatted floor (BBG). Housing conditions of both groups differed in kind of cubicles. EBG had soft rubber mat mattresses, BBG had cubicles with straw manure mattresses. Data analysed originated from the official milk performance testing of the "Landeskuratorium der Erzeugerringe für tierische Veredelung in Bayern e.V." and from activity counters worn by the cows. Statistical analysis resulted in a significant higher activity level of the EBG versus BBG. Milk yield and protein showed no significant difference between both groups, fat was significant higher in BBG. Somatic cell counts were significant lower in EBG. Data analysed regarding activity level classes showed a trend of decreasing milk yield and milk constituents with increasing activity. No evidence was found that soft floor results in higher milk yield. But a higher activity level of EBG cows might indicate a higher cow comfort on elastic floor.