Gladys Namuli, a dairy farmer in Semuto, recently grew concerned when her Friesian cow continued to pass a reddish discharge more than two weeks after calving.
While the cow appears healthy and the milk looks normal, she is puzzled by the relatively low milk yield, about 14 litres a day, and wonders whether the discharge is affecting milk production.
“I expected her to produce more milk since she feeds well, but the persistent discharge worries me, could it be the reason for the low yield?” Namuli wonders.
According to Charles Kabuye, a veterinary doctor, Namuli’s concern is common among farmers. However, he reassures her that in most cases, a reddish or brownish discharge after birth is normal.
“This is called lochia, it’s a natural cleansing process of the uterus that can last up to three weeks after calving”, Kabuye advises.
Peter Mubiru, another experienced veterinary doctor, agrees.
“As long as the cow is eating well, is alert, and the milk is not discoloured or smelly, there is no need to panic, but if the discharge has a foul smell, the cow seems dull, or stops eating, then a vet should be consulted immediately,” Mubiru explains.
As for improving milk production, Mubiru recommends good-quality feeding, especially with protein-rich feeds like cottonseed cake, dairy meal, and plenty of clean water.
He also advises regular deworming and keeping the cow stress-free.
Namuli is relieved to learn that the discharge is normal and plans to adjust her cow’s feeding programme to boost milk production.
“I have learned that observation is key,” she says with a smile.
“At least now I know what to do and when to worry.”
