Based on the literature review, we conclude that data from a milking robot can
significantly improve the management of a dairy herd. We found that longer
milking intervals have a negative impact on milk production, udder health, and
somatic cell count (SCC). The frequency of milking with the milking robot depends
mainly on the lactation stage and milk yield, breed, and health and well-being of the
animals (lame cows have a harder time getting on the milking robot). Cows that are
milked more frequently have a higher milk yield. The introduction of robotic
milking shows no significant effect on SCC, while more frequent milking is likely
to slightly reduce the fat and protein content of milk. Robotic milking can
potentially improve milk quality because milking robotics have precise sensors that
quickly detect changes in milk quality. We have found that the concentrate feed in
the milking robot attracts cows, which affects the number of visits to the milking
robot. Our family farm is also involved in commercial milk production. We
conclude that the decision to introduce a milking robot was influenced by the age
structure of the workforce and the desire to improve labour efficiency, reduce the
amount of time spent milking, and reduce physically demanding work, which also
affects the family's well-being and lifestyle. For our farm, the data from the milking
robot is also useful and makes an important contribution to improving the
management of the dairy herd.
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