Getting dry cow rations right for spring calving suckler cows is crucial in the coming months, as getting it wrong can result in poor calves and lower quality colostrum.Straw may be as much as 80% of the dry cow diet, but to use it successfully, farmers must understand its limitations, says Karen Stewart, SAC Consultant. It is low in energy, protein and very deficient in minerals.However, as dry suckler cows have low nutrient requirements, it can work, but to achieve the maximum energy value from straw it is vital to add protein to the diet, as Ms Stewart explains.
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