Winter feeding methods and techniques

Straw, when used as a single nutrient source, often leads to poor cattle health and even loss of livestock due to nutritional deficiencies. However, ammonia treatment of straw can significantly improve its palatability and digestibility, making it more appealing to cows. The process involves chopping the straw into 2-3 cm pieces. For every 100 kg of straw or buckwheat, mix in 4 kg of urea. First dissolve the urea in 40 liters of water, then combine it with the chopped straw. Once thoroughly mixed, place the mixture in a sealed container such as a large drum or cement pit, compact it tightly, and ensure no air gets in. After about one month of ammoniation, the treated fodder becomes soft, fragrant, and much easier for cows to digest. When feeding cows during winter, it's best to use a variety of forages. Mix short grasses with long ones, and high-quality forage with lower-quality ones. Examples include wheat straw, green hay, medlar leaves, peanut shells, and other grasses. This combination not only improves taste but also ensures a well-balanced diet that cows enjoy eating. If the feed includes hard materials like corn or soybeans, they should be mixed with softer ingredients such as bran or flour. Start by offering grass first, and once the cow is full, add more feed gradually. To enhance flavor, you can roast beans and mix them into the grass. Even when there's little grass available, cows will still eat if the feed is properly prepared and flavored. Urea is an effective way to supplement protein, especially during the winter months. It should be given in appropriate amounts: 40–60 grams per day for calves over six months, 70–100 grams for fattening cattle, and up to 150 grams for adult cows. Since urea has a poor taste, it’s best to mix it with 1% of concentrate feed before adding it to the grass. Avoid giving water for at least 30 minutes after feeding. To ensure proper nutrition during the cold season, plan feeding times carefully. Not only should cows be fed well during the day, but they should also have access to a second feeding at night. Aim for around 13–15 kg of grass per day. In winter, avoid giving cows cold water. Instead, provide warm water at around 25°C, and consider adding a small amount of salt and crushed beans to encourage drinking. This helps keep the cows warm and supports their overall health. Maintain cleanliness in the cowshed by regularly removing manure and keeping the bedding dry and clean. A dry environment reduces the risk of disease. Each day, lead the cows outside to sunbathe, and use a scraper or brush to groom them. This promotes blood circulation and helps prevent bovine discomfort or illness.

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