To estimate how much hay a cow needs to feed in the winter, multiply the daily intake of hay by the number of days it will be fed. For example, 4,404 pounds of hay a day for a 30-day feeding period would require 2.2 tons of hay. Depending on the type of feeding system used, this amount may be much higher or lower. Also, as much as 10% of the hay may be wasted, this amount should be factored in.
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Cost
When considering the total cost of hay for a cow in the cold season, it is important to understand the costs associated with different feeding methods. Depending on the amount of hay used, supplementation can cost as much as 40% of the cow’s annual cost. The less expensive alternative is to establish limit-grazed ryegrass pasture. Depending on your local climate and pasture types, you can reduce the cost of hay by using native grasses.
For example, a herd of 80 spring-calving cows weighing one ton each would have to eat approximately $80 worth of hay per month. Using a typical hay-based diet with 20% protein cubes would increase the cost to $165 per ton, which would equal about $0.08 per lb. That would make hay for a cow costing 30 lbs per day about $2.40 per day.
Size
How much hay your cows eat depends on the amount of moisture in the hay. A round bale containing 10 percent moisture is equal to approximately 29 to 36 pounds of edible dry matter. Younger, lighter animals will consume less hay. The weight of a round bale will vary depending on the size and type of grass. Using a scale, weigh the bales yourself to estimate the quantity you need.
In Oklahoma, beef cow production ranks second in the nation. The Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service, one of two state agencies, administers the university’s land-grant mission. It is also part of Oklahoma State University’s Division of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources. Hay is a key part of the winter feed for beef cattle. The average head of cattle consumes 24 pounds of dry matter per day.
Storage
If you’re wondering how much hay a cow needs to survive the winter months, it’s important to understand how much it needs. During the coldest season, a cow will consume about 2% of its weight in dry matter each day, so you must make sure to provide enough hay. The amount of hay required depends on the breed and climate. If you’re wondering how to calculate the number of bales a cow will need, you can refer to the breed standards for the specific breed. You can also consult a knowledgeable person who knows about raising a particular breed. Then, use an equation to calculate the amount of hay a particular animal needs each day, taking into account the animal’s body weight and the amount of hay that it consumes.
A cow’s diet needs approximately 28 pounds of hay each day. It also requires plenty of space. A cowherd of ten animals needs about 70 square feet of hay, so the acreage of a typical cowherd is increased by 50 percent or more. In this situation, the hay supplier will be able to give you an estimate of the required amount. A bale will contain roughly 960 pounds of edible dry matter.
Feeding method
When determining how much hay a cow needs during the winter, consider the climate in your area. In Minnesota, the winter can start as early as October, and the snow covers the ground and prevents easy foraging. Therefore, hay can be needed from October through the beginning of May. Generally, a cow requires about 1.7 to 2.7 pounds of hay per day. In addition, the amount of hay consumed depends on the type of hay and the age of the hay.
Grass hay is best, and second and third cuttings are usually higher quality. Grass hay is best for weaned calves and young stock. You can also reduce your cow’s hay needs by grazing crop residue and cover crops and utilizing feed waste, like corn stover. You can also use supplements, such as ionophore, along with corn to supplement your cow’s diet.
