Fermentation is one of the main steps involved in feeding haylage to beef cattle. In this article, we discuss the benefits of fermented baleage to beef cows. We also look at the nutritional value of haylage and its management. For more information, visit the links at the bottom of the page. There are many advantages to feeding haylage to beef cattle. It is an inexpensive source of forage, and can be used in place of hay to help reduce a beef cow’s feed bill.
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Forage for lactating beef cows
Forage for lactating beef cows must contain adequate quantities of protein. Protein is essential for growth, milk production, and muscle development, and a lactating cow needs at least 11% CP per day. Her body score condition will be low during early lactation, so her forage intake must be higher than normal. If the forage doesn’t meet her needs, she may need to supplement with concentrate or high quality hay.
The amount of forage a lactating cow needs depends on the type of cow, its weight, and the stage of production. Cows weighing 1,300 pounds will need more forage than those weighing less than that. Lactating cows will need more than their non-lactating counterparts. Forages that are higher in protein will increase the cow’s DMI. However, these estimates are low.
Fermentation of baleage
If you feed beef cattle baleage, be sure to ferment it properly to avoid spoilage. Inadequate fermentation can allow potentially life-threatening bacteria to multiply. This can occur due to high moisture, manure contamination, improper sealing, or a high pH level. The signs of spoilage include dark, slimy, or rancid bales, bad odor, and poor palatability.
After tying a bale, it is important to wrap it to prevent air from escaping. This step starts the fermentation process. When the baleage is within the proper moisture range, it will complete fermentation in six to eight weeks. A more suitable fermentation rate is 4-6 weeks. In the meantime, feed out bales in two-hour intervals. Make sure that the plastic has at least a 50% overlap.
Nutritional value of baleage
While dry hay has the same nutritional value, baleage is often more expensive. Its nutritional value depends on the type of bales used, the amount of hay produced, and the cost of machinery and feeds. Nonetheless, many producers have found baleage to be a very good choice for their beef cattle. Below are some benefits of baleage for beef cattle. Listed below are just a few reasons to give it a try!
The most important benefit of baleage for beef cattle is its nutritional value. In addition to meeting nutritional requirements, baleage also helps reduce gas production in the digestive system. Bloat is usually the result of too much gas in the stomach. By providing baleage, you can help beef cattle maintain a healthy weight and avoid the problems associated with bloating. While it is important to choose good quality feeds, baleage has many other benefits.
Management of baleage
While winter is something that producers would like to put behind them, the hay making season kicks off with the preparation of feed sources for the coming winter. Forage harvesters are now turning to baleage, also called haylage and round bale silage, to supplement their livestock’s winter diet. Baleage is the result of baling forage at high moisture levels, which is why it can sometimes turn into a worthless mess. To avoid this, however, producers need to ensure that they apply the proper management techniques.
Baleage is a valuable source of energy, protein, and other nutrients for beef cows. When fed to cattle, it can reduce the use of other feeds, particularly when rationed to young calves. It can also be used for mixed rations. However, it is important to note that young cattle must adjust to the new diet before being put on it. If baleage doesn’t meet the daily nutrient requirements of your cows, it may be time to supplement with additional feeds.
Bacterial contamination of baleage
Among the most common causes of botulism is bacterial contamination of haylage. These microorganisms are spore-forming anaerobic Gram-positive rods and can be present in almost any haylage or forage source. They multiply in conditions characterized by high moisture, poor fermentation, and low pH. Symptoms of bacterial contamination include dark brown/black color, slimy texture, and a bad odor. In cattle, these signs may be accompanied by a loss of appetite or palatability.
The main reason for bacterial contamination of haylage and baleage in cattle is similar to those of infected fodder. Poor quality silage contains Bacillus species that proliferate. When ingested by cows, these organisms travel through the bloodstream to the uterus where they grow in the fetus and placenta. These cows typically abort their calves in the last month of pregnancy. Calves born alive may die within 24 hours.
