Grain Ration

[Hobby Farm]

I currently give my goats a mixture of corn, oats, rolled Barley. BOSS, and beet pulp on the milk stand. I am getting a fresh cow soon, and was wondering if I can give the cow the same ration.

Thanks.

 

[jhm47]

Should be fine, but you can probably get by with a cheaper ration if you eliminate the BOSS and beet pulp. Just increase the rest of the ration. The cow should be fed approximately 3.5% of her body weight by a dry matter basis. This is a rule of thumb, and you should monitor her body condition. You may have to increase the grain to keep her at a 5 - 6 body condition score if she's a very heavy milker. If you don't keep her in good condition, she likely won't breed back on time. Of course, dairy cows are notorious for being "hard breeders", so keeping her in the correct flesh is vitally important.