Why does a cow produce milk continuously? 0 11

The process of milk secretion (lactation) in females is controlled by hormones, primarily prolactin. When the nipples are stimulated, this hormone is released, leading to milk secretion throughout the entire period of nursing the offspring — whether it lasts for weeks or months.

In wild animals, lactation gradually ceases after the young transition to solid food. At the same time, in domestic animals, regular milking, which mimics suckling, helps maintain prolactin levels. A similar situation is observed in nursing women: in some cultures, children were breastfed until the age of 5–6 years, and during this time, mothers retained milk, while professional wet nurses could provide milk for decades.