Melkvee

Melkvee is the Dutch term for dairy cattle, cattle kept primarily for the production of milk and dairy products. In Dutch-speaking regions, melkvee refers to specialized dairy herds as distinct from beef cattle. Dairy cattle are typically bred for high milk yield, good udder health, and efficient heritability of desirable traits.

The most common dairy breeds worldwide include Holstein Friesian, known for high milk volume; Jersey, Guernsey, Ayrshire, and Red and White varieties, each with characteristic fat and protein profiles that influence milk quality and processing suitability. Breeds vary in temperament, feed efficiency, and adaptation to climate and management systems.

Typical production and management involve a lactation cycle of about 305 days with a dry period of roughly 60 days between lactations. Annual milk yield depends on breed and management, with Holstein-Friesians often producing several thousand liters per cow per year in commercial systems. Diets combine forage, such as pastures or silage, with concentrated energy and protein feeds. Milking is typically carried out in parlors or with automatic milking systems, and reproductive management aims for regular calving intervals, commonly around 12 to 13 months.

Health and welfare are central concerns in melkvee operations, including prevention and management of mastitis, lameness, metabolic disorders, and infectious diseases. Housing design, bedding, ventilation, and access to clean water contribute to welfare and productivity.

Economically, melkvee represents a major component of dairy farming and rural economies in many regions. Environmental considerations—such as feed efficiency, manure management, and methane emissions—drive ongoing research and policy initiatives to improve sustainability.