Quickly detect changes and problems in feeding using the most precise rumination data from where it occurs inside the cow. Optionally, continuously monitor pH value with our unique, patented smaXtec technology. With this data, you can adjust rations effectively, improving cow health and performance.
Optimise feeding
The smaXtecfeeding tool
With smaXtec's feeding tool, you can easily access the rumination activity of your different feeding groups. Monitor recent developments and quickly identify any deviations in rumination time. The feeding tool also allows you to detect possible fluctuations and daily changes in feeding behaviour.
How you benefit fromthe feeding tool:
Numerous external factors influence rumination behaviour and become visible in the feeding tool. This way, you can immediately detect events such as staff changes, group changes, reheating, rapid feed changes, feed shortages, changes in dry matter content, as well as hoof care and veterinary visits, and optimise your management accordingly.
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Immediately detect problems with feed quality.
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Uncover technical and human feeding errors.
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Reliably identify fluctuating feed composition and quality.
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Optimise your feed and feeding management based on accurate and reliable data.
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Precisely and directly track the effects of (planned) feed changes, both for individual animals and at a group level.
With the feeding toolyou can detect:
too long/short mixing times (selection)
staff changes
changes in feed composition
if feed is changed too fast
group changes
if feed is not pushed enough
reheating
insufficient quantity of feed
restlessness, stress
Optimise feeding bymeasuring pH
The smaXtecpH Bolus
With the unique, patented smaXtec technology, you can continuously monitor pH and identify problems in feed management. Based on the data, you can determine needs-based rations and improve cow health and performance.
The pH value shows you how acidic or alkaline the rumen is. The forestomach is extremely sensitive and, in contrast to rumination activity, is almost exclusively influenced by feeding. Therefore the pH value is best suited to evaluate and optimise feeding.
In the smaXtec pH dashboard, we show you this unique data over the course of the cow's production cycle (early dry to high yield). As a result, you can make important management decisions for your farm to help your herd reach it's full potential.
The more stable the pH value, the better the conditions for efficient rumen flora. With smaXtec, you can keep an eye on rumen health and react to any changes to create the best conditions for success.
What influencespH value?
- Feed composition
- Ration composition
- Feeding management
Feed composition
A good mixture of crude fiber and concentrated feed is necessary for feed composition. The more energy-rich the feed, the more likely it is that the rumen will be over-acidified. Feeding errors not only affect the health of the cows, but also the composition and therefore the quality of the milk.
Ration composition
Rations should be designed to meet the animals' needs in order to ensure high performance and maintain animal health. This means that the animals should be supplied with sufficient energy, but the concentrated feed should not replace the intake of crude fiber. The less sugar and starch there is in the ration, the lower the risk of rumen acidosis.
Feeding management
Feeding management has an important influence on rumen pH. Cows and their rumen microbes appreciate routines such as fixed feeding times and consistent procedures. It is also important to encourage cows to eat by regularly pushing feed so that a consistent feed intake is possible.
Why should youmeasure pH?
Feeding costs account for up to 70% of the total costs on a dairy farm. Therefore, it is crucial to optimally manage this area while simultaneously ensuring the cows’ rumen health. The continuous pH value measurement supports you in the following ways:
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Recognise feed-related diseases earliest possible! Continuous pH measurement is the most reliable method for detecting subacute ruminal acidosis (SARA). Early detection increases the health of your herd and prevents secondary diseases and problems.
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Only a healthy herd with needs-based feeding can sustainably achieve the desired performance. The pH value measurement shows whether the selected rations meet the cows’ current requirements.
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When changing feed, immediately see how new rations affect the pH value, enabling you to react quickly if needed.
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Identify and utilise previously untapped performance potential to increase milk production.
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Use the data to improve the feeding efficiency of your cows, reduce costs and increase performance.
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Identify feeding management errors and correct them, e.g. issues with feed composition, frequency or ration.
Would you like to improve feedingon your farm?
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