What percentage of potassium (K) do dry cows need in their diet?

Dry cows typically require around 0.8 percent potassium in their diet. Potassium is an essential macromineral that plays a crucial role in various physiological functions, including muscle function, nerve transmission, and regulation of osmotic pressure in the body. Maintaining the appropriate level of potassium is particularly important in dry cows, as it can influence their health and subsequent milk production post-calving.

This level of potassium ensures that the cow's metabolic processes remain efficient during the dry period, which is essential for preparing the body for the demands of lactation. Furthermore, an adequate supply of potassium can help prevent metabolic disorders such as milk fever, which can arise from imbalances in mineral levels.

Other percentages listed would either be insufficient or excessive for their needs, potentially leading to suboptimal health and production outcomes in dairy cattle.