If you’ve ever wondered why can’t cows eat alfalfs, it might be because of the type of plant. Alfalfa is considered to be safe for livestock when it is in bloom, but if it is in bud or early bloom, the plant’s nutritional value decreases. If you notice your cattle aren’t eating the alfalfa you’re giving them, it could be because of bloat. In such cases, your animal’s body swells rapidly on the left side, kicking its feet, or showing other signs of discomfort. Call your veterinarian immediately!
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Grazing alfalfa after a killing frost
Grazing alfalfa after the killing frost can be beneficial, but should be done only after the alfalfa has fully dried out. This is because the alfalfa has a lower moisture content and broken cell walls. The bloat risk is greater if cattle graze the alfalfa right after a killing frost. Cattle that eat alfalfa after the killing frost should be moved away from the field for a week.
While a non-killing frost can kill alfalfa, the plant can still regrow. The plant will use stored carbohydrates for overwintering and spring regrowth. Without these reserves, the alfalfa stand may be compromised. However, the regrowth of alfalfa can be delayed until the next killing frost. The following are some guidelines for grazing alfalfa after a killing frost:
Grazing alfalfa in full bloom
Grazing alfalfa in the full bloom stage of the plant reduces the risk of bloat. This is because soluble protein levels are low in the plant during its vegetative or early bloom stages. Additionally, plant cell walls thicken and lignin content increases. Hence, consuming alfalfa during the full bloom stage of the plant will slow down the rate of digestion of the plant in the rumen.
Grazing alfalfa in the full bloom stage is a high-energy source, and cattle need plenty of it to stay healthy. Grazing alfalfa should be done in rotational fashion. During the early bloom stage, move the mature patch to the younger one. Cutting off excess alfalfa after it blooms will help decrease the risk of alfalfa weevil. During the fall, a cow can consume alfalfa leaves, stems, and roots. The stem is low in protein but high in fiber. During the summer, cows can be kept on pastures where alfalfa is not growing. In a pasture where alfalfa grows in one area, rotate the cattle with other grasses in a different
Rotational feeding
Forage production can be improved by 30 to 70% if cows are fed on pasture in a rotating fashion. Rotational feeding increases soil fertility and ensures that forages get the proper nutrients in different locations. The drawback of this method is the amount of manual labor it takes to rotate feeding locations. It can be a pain to drag a ring, and it can be difficult to move the animals once they are in one place.
Pasture can also be the most affordable method of providing forage for ruminant animals. Studies have shown that farms with substantial pasture usage can reduce feed costs by $0.50 to $1.00 per day per cow. To ensure optimal pasture utilization, farmers must know their animals and plants and respond accordingly. Those who are serious about using this system should spend considerable time learning about their animals and the plants they graze. By following these simple guidelines, they can begin to increase productivity and decrease feed costs.
Nutritional value of alfalfa hay
There are many benefits of providing cows with alfalfa hay. This nutritious food is loaded with vitamins, minerals, and trace elements. These nutrients help support a healthy rumen and overall well-being. Besides that, it can help meet the high energy needs of lactating cows. However, you should keep in mind that alfalfa hay can also cause high sugar levels and bloating in the cows, so don’t give it to them in excess.
Alfalfa hay provides dairy cows with the nutrients they need to thrive. It contains between 17 and 20 percent crude protein and between one and two percent calcium. Additionally, it has a low calorie content. The alfalfa hay is low in fibre and provides high protein and energy. Therefore, cows fed on alfalfa hay will gain weight faster and maintain a healthy condition.
