In 2021, Hornstead Dairy took a step toward smarter data-driven care by implementing smaXtec, a health monitoring system initially aimed to improve their reproduction program. What started as a tool for reproduction soon uncovered a hidden culprit.

Although it has become commonplace in our standard daily routines, we don’t think about all the ways AI tools are and can be utilized on dairy operations. These powerful tools can not only simplify day-to-day tasks, but they can also help drive decision-making and profitability.

We often don’t realize that like the football team, the microbes in the rumen have their own “positions” and responsibilities. The success of the ruminant digestive system is dependent on each microbial team member performing its function.

If cows could just tell us when they get an upset tummy, maybe we could help them get through the episode without a hitch. Before we can discuss rumen dysfunction, we need to understand what normal rumen function looks like.

We are all well versed in understanding acidosis, but do we truly understand the cost of a leaky gut? What was once a topic of pH has now transitioned into the wider impacts of microbiology, endocrinology, physiology and immunology.

The ruminant digestive system is as complex as it is important to beef and dairy production. Understanding how it works and what to do when it’s compromised can contribute to better overall gut health in cattle. After all, a healthier gut helps improve performance, prevent leaky gut and mitigate stress — all of which lead to healthier cows and profits.