What can you feed cows? It is an art and science, and has been passed down for generations by farmers. Cows have four stomachs and require different nutrients than most people. You should know how to feed your cows the right things to grow and produce milk. Read on to learn more. Here are some suggestions:
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Oats
Oats can be a good supplement to the diet of cattle, and Bill Couser, who runs a beef cattle farm in central Iowa, is trying them out on his cattle. He currently grows corn and soybeans, but sees oats as a legume cover crop that will fix nitrogen in the soil. He was curious how the cattle would do, and whether oats would improve their health.
Corn husks
Corn stalks and husks provide the same nutrition and quality as grass, and as a result, they can be used as inexpensive supplements for cows. The first thing to consider when feeding cornstalks to cows is stocking rate. Cattle will sort through large bales to find the best and most palatable material. The stalks are the least nutritious part of the crop, and if forced to eat them, the cows will suffer a loss of body condition and weight.
Apple pomace
For the winter feeding program of beef cows, apple pomace silage can be used as a supplement. However, it should be noted that the amount of DDT and pesticide residues from the pomace should be limited in comparison to other feed sources. Nevertheless, the added value of apples as a supplement is undoubtedly worth the price. This article will explore the benefits of apple pomace as a feed source for cows.
Blueberries
While it is not natural for cows to eat blueberries, it is perfectly safe for them to consume them as part of their diet. Blueberries contain numerous antioxidants, essential vitamins, and minerals that cows can benefit from. However, feeding them blueberries in excess can lead to adverse health effects. In addition to being highly nutritious, blueberries are also highly palatable for cows. In addition to providing essential nutrients to livestock, blueberries are also rich in dietary fibre.
Cactus
In a study, researchers examined how cactus, a plant similar to sand, affected the feeding behavior of lactating Holstein cows. Cows were selected based on their mean live weight (LW) and milk production (kg/day). The cows were separated into two groups based on their lactation status, and they were fed three different treatments: two types of cactus, a separate concentrate, and a total mixed ration. Behavioral variables were evaluated every 10 minutes for 48 hours.
Salt licks
Mineral licks are places for animals to lick essential minerals. There are many types of mineral licks, some natural, some artificial. The benefits of using a mineral lick for your cattle are obvious. They are beneficial to your cattle in several ways. By providing a clean source of mineral content for your cows, you will be helping to keep them healthy. Using a mineral lick is a simple solution to this problem.
Supplements
The optimum use of supplementation programs in beef cattle production should be based on the type of forage, stage of production, and overall health of the herd. By selecting the appropriate supplements, a cow operation can boost profitability and maximize returns. Supplements for cows may also improve cow health, milk quality, and methane emissions. For these reasons, it is important to use high-quality supplements that support the health and growth of your cows.
