Adaptability of dairy cows to robotic milking

Abstract

Robotic milking systems (RMS) offer an innovative approach to improve productivity on dairy farms. RMS will influence the future growth of farms, the nature of husbandry employed and the quality of life on family farms. For farms using hired labour and located near industrial centres, RMS may contribute to the reduction of wage costs. As this technology is very expensive, and little is known regarding its interplay between animal, technology and stockman, or the effects on milking performance the detailed study is very required. Behavioural observation of the animals and monitoring of the system become extremely useful. In this review, the RMS impact on dairy cows is explored. What is the basis for adapting to the dairy cow milking is discussed in the first part of this review. Some housing parameters related to structures, design and environment are reviewed. Behavioural requirements of cows for robotic milking are written in the second part. The third part highlights the anticipated problems and last part is devoted to adaptability of cows to robotic milking. Recent studies on the impact of automated milking, different management regimes, and relocation with milking manner change on behaviour of dairy cows are discussed. The effects of inadequate milking procedures and improper milking technical parameters on welfare and udder health of cows are also emphasized.