When you decide to start feeding your cattle hay, there are several things you need to keep in mind. These things include Allocation, testing for mold, deciding between roughage and legume hay, and providing hay to lactating cows. In this article, we’ll talk about the various types of hay available and how you can best use each one. In addition, we’ll touch on the proper way to test hay for mold and other problems.
Contents
Allocation
There are a number of factors to consider when allocating cattle hay. Some of these factors are specific to your farming situation, while others apply to a wider range of agricultural practices. For example, the allocation of hay to your herd may vary from ring to ring, depending on how well you know the land and the herd’s needs. Another factor to consider when allocating hay to your herd is the source of the hay.
Grazing hay is a very important part of beef cattle production, because hay is inexpensive and provides high nutrient content. It is also one of the best ways to increase the carrying capacity of cattle year-round. Hay feeding is the most efficient way to feed cattle throughout the year, allowing producers to provide nutrition at a low cost. Forage is typically harvested at times when growth is high and stress is low, allowing them to feed cattle all year long.
Testing for mold
While cows are not as susceptible to mold problems as horses, they can be affected by slightly to moderately moldy hay. For cattle and other small ruminants, this is generally safe, especially when stored and fed in a well-ventilated area. If the feed is not particularly palatable, testing for mold will give you an idea of how high the mold level is. In some cases, a simple visual inspection will be sufficient to determine whether hay is safe to feed.
In the case of rain-damaged hay, it is difficult to determine whether or not the hay has a moldy problem. However, many factors affect the amount of mold a given hay may contain. The time, length, and moisture content of hay all play a role in whether the hay is moldy or not. Additionally, hay that is too wet for baling is more likely to contain mold. Hence, it is important for producers of all forage consuming animals to regularly test their hay to ensure its quality and safety.
Providing roughage vs legume hay
Compared to grass hay, legume hay is higher in protein, and the relative cost depends on supply and demand. The relative cost of hay is also affected by fuel costs and the drought. The cost of hay is typically higher during drought years, and it can be more costly when it is not readily available. The relative cost of legume hay is higher than grass hay. If you are concerned about the cost of hay, consider using a combination of both.
Providing hay for cattle is a good way to meet the nutritional needs of your livestock. While pasture can meet these needs, hay made from legumes can provide more protein and energy than grass. Grass hay is fine for young calves and mature beef cattle, but for lactating cows, you will need to supplement the hay with legumes. This will help the cattle get enough protein.
Providing hay to lactating cows
Supplementing lactating cows on pasture with forage is a common practice for dairy producers. The practice has both advantages and disadvantages. A dairy manager must determine the goals of supplementation and adjust it accordingly. The following information will help you decide which supplementation option is best for your operation. Know your cows’ nutritional needs and eat grass hay only if it is suitable for their age and breed.
The amount of supplemental protein required varies according to the quality of hay and crop residues. A good alfalfa hay should only need one pound of supplemental protein in dry cows. For lactating cows, a single pound of soybean meal can provide a high-quality source of protein. Urea can also be used in rations as it contains a higher energy content.
Providing hay during drought
During times of drought, feeding cattle hay is an essential part of livestock management. While providing cattle with quality hay is essential, they also need access to plenty of fresh water. In some areas, it may even be necessary to supplement their diet with grain. During dry periods, pastures can dry out and the remaining water becomes unappealing. In these conditions, cattle owners should follow the recommendations from their state veterinarian.
Forage price fluctuations are often high in a drought, and it is important to check the value of hay before feeding it to cattle. Hay prices in western Colorado can range from $200 to $240 per ton. In addition, hay may be scarce and expensive, so producers of good quality hay should consider purchasing lower-quality hay in order to cover their costs. Fortunately, many farmers are adopting alternative feeds as a means of ensuring their herd’s health.
