Peak Milk Yield in Dairy Cattle

Peak milk yield in dairy cattle occurs at:

Correct Answer: 6–8 weeks of lactation

Peak milk yield in dairy cattle occurs at 6–8 weeks (approximately 40–60 days) after parturition. Milk production rises steeply after calving, reaches its peak at 6–8 weeks, and then gradually declines over the rest of the lactation period.

Lactation Phases in Dairy Cattle

• Early phase (1–100 days): Milk yield increases rapidly; peaks at 6–8 weeks.
• Mid-phase (101–200 days): Dry matter intake peaks; milk yield begins declining.
• Late phase (201–305 days): Milk yield declines steadily toward dry-off.

Lactation in Which Maximum Lifetime Yield Occurs

• Cow: Maximum milk yield in 4th–6th lactation.
• Buffalo: Maximum milk yield in 4th lactation.

Standard Lactation Period

Standard lactation period = 305 days (10 months). Calving interval = 365 days (12 months) = Lactation (305 days) + Dry period (60 days).

Why Other Options Are Wrong

• 4–6 weeks → too early; peak has not been reached yet.
• 8–12 weeks → too late; production is usually declining by this point.
• 2–4 weeks → this is immediately post-calving; milk production is still ramping up.