The following discussion questions can be used in a face-to-face setting or via Teams/Zoom to discuss further the content presented in Nutrition Fundamentals. Take the time to discuss these in-depth, which will help further your understanding of nutrition fundamentals.

1. How does the nutritional requirement of a dairy cow change with different stages of lactation, and why?
2. What are the implications of feed quality on milk production and cow health?
3. Discuss the role of fibre in dairy cow diets and its impact on rumen health.
4. How can farmers balance the cost and nutritional value when choosing feeds?
5. What are the benefits and potential drawbacks of using feed additives and supplements?
6. In what ways do environmental conditions affect the nutritional needs of dairy cows?
7. How can technology and data analysis improve feed efficiency and cow productivity?
8. Discuss the impact of proper water management on dairy cow nutrition and health.
9. How does the concept of dry matter intake help in formulating a balanced diet for dairy cows?
10. What strategies can be used to mitigate nutritional challenges during the dry period?
11. Discuss the importance of colostrum in the nutrition of newborn calves.
12. How can body condition scoring be used to make informed decisions about feed adjustments?
13. What considerations should be made when transitioning heifers from young stock diets to lactating cow diets?
14. How does feed testing contribute to the formulation of a more accurate and effective feeding strategy?
15. Consider the role of sustainability in dairy farming, especially in terms of feed production and waste management.