Abstract

The nutrition of dairy animals, especially during the prepartum and postpartum periods significantly affects their health, production and reproduction. Proper nutrition is essential to minimize negative energy balance, particularly during late lactation. Dairy animals with high genetic potential require high concentrate diets, but sudden changes from fodder to concentrates can lead to ruminal acidosis. This leads rumen pH drop and disrupts digestion and can cause significant weight loss and health issues. Sub-acute ruminal acidosis (SARA) is a milder but economically impactful form of acidosis, reducing milk production and leading to substantial financial losses. Cation-based mineral supplement (C-bMS) is particularly effective in maintaining rumen health and enhancing milk production, fat composition and overall animal health. Field studies demonstrated that the total average dairy milk yield rose by 13.02%, with crossbred cows’ yield increasing by 13.47% and buffaloes by 12.91%. Additionally, the milk fat percentage in the treatment group increased by 0.52% (10.20%) and the body condition score of the animals improved by 0.25 post-intervention. Consequently, farmers’ net profits rose by 28.65% with net profits from feeding C-bMS being higher for buffalo rearing farmers (₹16447) compared to crossbred rearing farmers (₹12629).