Effects of high ambient temperature and restricted feed intake on nitrogen utilization for milk production in lactating Holstein cows

Three experiments were performed to examine the effects of high ambient temperature and feed restriction on nitrogen (N) utilization in lactating cows. Experiment 1 investigated N utilization in four cows fed ad libitum in a 2 × 2 crossover design under constant moderate (18°C) or high (28°C) ambient temperatures. The milk N secretion (P < 0.01) and protein concentration (P < 0.05) decreased under high ambient temperature. Experiment 2 investigated N utilization in four cows under constant moderate ambient temperature in a 2 × 2 crossover design with ad libitum or 70% ad libitum feed intake. The milk N secretion and protein concentration both decreased with feed restriction (P < 0.05). Experiment 3 investigated N utilization in four cows fed 70% ad libitum in a 2 × 2 crossover design under constant moderate or high ambient temperatures. The milk protein concentration decreased under high ambient temperature (P < 0.01). The milk N secretion tended to decrease under high ambient temperature (P < 0.10). Therefore, decreased N utilization for milk production at high ambient temperature is mainly caused by a reduced feed intake and the high ambient temperature itself.