How Many Bales of Hay Does a Cow Need for Winter?

Cows Feed Consumption

Cows will voluntarily consume about 2 percent of their body weight in hay per day. Grass hays often contain 7 percent to 10 percent moisture, leading to a daily consumption of around 26 pounds. Hay wastage must also be considered when feeding big round bales, estimated at 15%.

Winter Feeding and Hay Needs

During winter, cows need 38% roughage in their diet, with 34% succulent feed, and the remaining 28% concentrate. A cow weighing half a ton should consume 15 kg of hay daily during the winter feeding period.

Best Practices in Winter Feeding

In winter, the animal’s diet largely depends on human choices. Careful hay selection is essential to ensure proper nutrition. The ideal time to harvest hay is when plants begin to bloom, especially for legumes with increased nutrient content.

Hay Feeding Efficiency

Feeding one large round bale of hay to two or three steers or cows can last a few weeks. Consider the daily hay consumption per cow to determine the required amount for a specific period.

Cost Considerations

To feed 10 cows for one day, seven 40-pound bales of hay are needed, with an estimated cost exceeding $90.

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