Hay is an essential feed source for cows, yet it can be expensive and difficult to produce and store. In order to make hay more affordable, producers may opt to combine it with grain.
Grains provide additional energy and protein that can supplement hay supplies as pastures decline in winter. Furthermore, grains can be used to replace hay that has become spoiled or destroyed due to weather-related conditions like mold, rot or dry matter loss.
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Feeding Patterns
Cows consume hay in distinct meals that are determined by short-term feeding patterns (Tolkamp, 2002). Studies of these patterns can provide insight into how forage intake and milk production are controlled.
When forage is scarce or expensive, a grain-based ration may be fed to partially replace roughage. Grains contain high levels of starch which decreases the population of rumen microbes that break down and digest fiber, potentially impacting intake and digestion of forage.
Limit grain intake to a few pounds per cow daily, as this allows microbial populations to adjust and minimizes digestive disturbances such as rumen acidosis and founder.
Grain, unlike hay, contains less fiber and is more vulnerable to spoilage. As the grain level increases in the rumen, its pH drops, potentially decreasing the population of bacteria responsible for breaking down and digesting fiber.
Cut waste by feeding hay in small amounts or through a feeder to minimize the chance of cattle trampling it and soiling it. Feeding hay through racks or “hay rings” also limits how much is consumed at once.
Feeding Schedules
Timing the timing of feeding hay to livestock can be a complicated decision. Many factors, such as drought, flooding, deep snow or ice, freezing temperatures, frost and ceasement in forage growth can influence when and how much hay should be given out.
Studies have indicated that sheepvand cattle tend to take more hay when forage availability is near 2,000 pounds of dry matter per acre.
When forage availability drops below 1,000 lbs of dry matter per acre, animal energy intake is significantly reduced. With decreased forage availability, animals must expend significantly more effort to graze.
When selecting when to feed hay, take into account both the grass type being fed and your cow’s body condition and age. Cows that consume forage that is too mucky, coarse or wet may find it less desirable and end up producing more waste during feeding.
Feeding Costs
Hay cow food costs vary based on the quality and nutrient requirements of the cow. For instance, spring-calving cows require less supplemental feed than fall-calving counterparts.
Drought can drive up forage prices and availability, often making it difficult to locate. To maintain herd health and financial viability, producers may want to limit concentrate diets to a small portion of their total feed budget.
Another cost-effective way to cut feeding expenses is by decreasing the amount of hay fed and allowing cattle to pick which variety they find most appealing. Many equipment manufacturers sell “processers” that chop the hay into pieces before depositing it in a windrow for consumption by cattle.
By processing hay through a processor that cuts it into short stems, the nutritional value of the forage is greatly diminished and does not ensure equal access for all animals to it. Instead, distributing forage in its long-stem state allows all creatures to enjoy equal access to it.
Nutrition
No matter if you raise dairy cows, beef cattle, or both, the nutrition of your hay is vital for their health and wellbeing. The amount of forage required depends on each cow’s weight, production stage, and forage quality and moisture content.
A 1,200-pound dairy cow requires around 24 pounds of hay daily. Assuming it’s 100% dry matter, however most bales only contain 6-10% moisture!
The higher the protein, energy and digestibility of your hay, the better. Young hay that’s still in its vegetative phase contains more protein and energy than old plants that have gone to seed; this makes it easier for your cows to absorb essential nutrients.
