Cleverly managing roughage is essential for optimizing cattle nutrition and health. Various types of roughage, such as straw or corn stalks, can be chopped or crushed, but it's important not to make them too fine. Ideally, the particle size should be between 6 mm and 10 mm. If the material becomes too powdery, it may settle in the rumen, which can negatively impact digestion and increase the risk of issues like rumen impaction. The process of crushing roughage requires care—over-processing before mixing can reduce its effectiveness. A good approach is to mix a bundle of straw with a bundle of corn stalks and some powdered material, allowing the mixture to naturally form a uniform blend. This method ensures better nutrient balance, as combining different roughages helps cover all the nutritional needs of the animals. Therefore, beef cattle diets should ideally include at least six different types of roughage. Properly crushing roughage not only reduces waste but also improves feed efficiency and utilization.
Smart use of roughage can significantly enhance its value. While crop residues like straw and corn stalks are high in fiber and low in nutrients, they play an important role in maintaining rumen function. However, feeding them directly offers limited benefits in terms of weight gain or milk production. Fortunately, treatments such as alkali or ammonia treatment can improve their digestibility by altering the structure of lignin and cellulose, making them more accessible to digestive enzymes. For example, soaking straw in sodium hydroxide can boost its digestibility from 40% to 70%. Using 4% sodium hydroxide solution can increase feed intake by 48% and dry matter digestibility by 16%. Ammoniated straw can also raise crude protein levels by 5% to 6%, while improving feed intake and organic matter digestibility by 10% to 15%. Urea-treated straw, when properly fermented, allows rumen microbes to synthesize more protein, effectively replacing up to 30% of dietary protein requirements.
Feeding roughage properly is key to maximizing its benefits. After processing or treating, roughage should be fed separately, typically before concentrates. This follows the natural feeding behavior of cattle, who tend to eat lower-quality feed first and then move on to better-quality ones. Alternatively, mixing coarse and fine materials together can also work well, as it encourages complete consumption, reduces waste, and improves palatability. Feeding roughage in this way helps prevent selective eating, ensuring that cows consume all the feed without leftovers. This is especially important during cold or hot weather, as uneaten feed can spoil or freeze. By offering roughage in a balanced manner, cattle are more likely to eat more, leading to improved overall intake and better performance.
Portable Ultrasound Scanner,Ultrasound Scanner Machine,Portable Ultrasound Machine,Laptop Ultrasound Machine
Mianyang United Ultrasound Electronics Co., Ltd , https://www.uniultrasonic.com