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Dreaming of fresh, creamy milk straight from your own cow? One of the keys to a happy and productive dairy cow is a well-balanced diet. But with so many commercial feed options available, it can be overwhelming to know what’s best. In this post, we’ll simplify things with a homemade milk cow feed ration recipe that’s easy to follow and kind to your wallet. Whether you’re aiming for high milk production or just enough for your family, this guide will help you create a customized feed plan for your cow’s needs.

Please note that this blog post may contain affiliate links to products from businesses, including Amazon. As an Amazon Associate and affiliate for other business, I may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!

Matching Your Cow to Your Goals

Before diving into feed recipes, it’s crucial to consider your goals for your family milk cow. This will heavily influence the type of cow you choose and how you feed her. Here are some key questions to ask yourself.

Milk Production – How much milk do you need? Are you aiming to sell milk, provide for your family, or both?

Lifestyle – Do you envision a completely grass-fed system, or are you open to supplemental grains and concentrates?

Cow’s background – Understand the breeding and previous diet of your cow. Was she raised on pasture or a high-production dairy?

My Experience with Different Cows

Over the years, I’ve had the pleasure of owning several family milk cows, each with a unique background. We have had cows from larger organic dairy operations, coventional dairy farms, and even from small grassfed raw milk dairies.

Each cow clearly reflected the goals of their previous farm.

High-Production Dairy Cows

These cows came from larger organic and conventional dairy operations. These cows were bred for high milk output and required significant feed inputs to maintain production.

Grass-Fed Dairy Cow

This heifer came from a small grass-fed raw milk dairy and produces less milk but is easier to maintain on a primarily grass-based diet.

Learning Opportunities with the Family Milk Cow

Each cow clearly reflected the goals of their previous farm. These experiences taught me valuable lessons about matching their diet to their genetics and lifestyle. You can read more about my journey with each of them here.

Choosing a cow that aligns with your goals and understanding her background is essential for creating a successful feeding plan.

The Grass-Fed Dairy Cow: Not Always as Simple as it Seems

Tips for Grass-Fed Success

Select a cow with genetics suited for grass-based systems.

Always provide access to high-quality hay and a mineral supplement formulated for dairy cows.

Regularly assess your cow’s body condition to ensure she’s maintaining a healthy weight.

If needed, supplement with grain-free feeds, like those from specialty suppliers or your local grain mill. Your cow’s health and well-being are paramount. Don’t hesitate to adjust her diet if necessary, even if it means deviating from a strictly grass-fed approach.

Feeding the Lactating Cow: Fueling Milk Production

Lactation is a demanding period for dairy cows, and their nutritional needs increase significantly to support milk production. Meeting these needs requires careful attention to their diet.

Hay Quality is Key

High-quality hay is the foundation of a lactating cow’s diet. We prefer to feed 2nd or 3rd cutting hay with alfalfa during this stage. Alfalfa is a legume that is rich in protein and calcium, both essential for milk production and milk fat.

Grain and Concentrates

In addition to hay, lactating cows often benefit from supplemental grains and concentrate feed. This is especially true if you’re aiming for high milk production. Commercial Dairy rations are readily available and formulated to meet the specific needs of lactating cows. You can create your own mix using ingredients like corn, oats, and barley, as we’ll discuss later in this post.

The amount of grain you feed will depend on your cow’s production level, body condition, and the quality of your hay.

Monitoring and Adjustment

It’s crucial to monitor your lactating cow closely and adjust her diet as needed. Keep your eye out for weight loss. If she’s losing weight, she may need more calories (specifically carbohydrates).

A decrease in milk production could indicate a need for more protein or energy in her diet.

Changes in manure consistency can be a sign of digestive issues, which may require dietary adjustments.

Regularly monitoring your cow’s body condition, milk production, and manure will help you fine-tune her diet for optimal health and productivity.

By providing a balanced and adequate diet, you can help your lactating cow thrive and produce abundant, high-quality milk.

Early lactation cows will peak in production around 30-90 days post calving. This is an important time to monitor and ensure she’s being fed adequately to avoid negative effects.

The Dry Cow: Preparing for the Next Lactation

The dry period, typically lasting 60 or more days before calving, is a crucial time for the cow to rest and replenish her body reserves in preparation for the next lactation. Proper nutrition during this time is essential to prevent metabolic issues and ensure a healthy calving.

Preventing Milk Fever

One of the main concerns during the dry period is milk fever, a condition caused by low blood calcium levels around calving. To minimize the risk of milk fever, we feed 1st cutting grass hay during this stage, as it is lower in calcium than alfalfa or later cuttings. Alfalfa hay, pellets, and cubes are high in calcium and should be avoided during the dry period. A specialized dry cow mineral supplement helps balance calcium and phosphorus levels. Think of it as a prenatal vitamin for your cow!

Other Nutritional Requirements

Maintain her body condition and monitor for health issues. Ensure your dry cow maintains a healthy body condition score, neither too thin nor too fat. Watch for any signs of illness or discomfort and consult your veterinarian if needed.

Caring for the Fresh Cow

The first few days after calving (or “freshening”) are a critical transition period for the cow. She needs extra care and attention to ensure a healthy start to lactation and prevent complications.

Immediate Post-Calving Care

Offer a 5-gallon bucket of warm water mixed with about 2 cups of molasses. This provides much-needed hydration and an energy boost after the exertion of calving. (I just use regular molasses from my pantry—nothing fancy!)

Colostrum and Milk Production

The first milk the cow produces is colostrum, which is rich in antibodies and essential nutrients for the newborn calf. Colostrum production is typically low in volume, but milk production will increase rapidly as the cow transitions into full lactation.

Monitoring for Milk Fever

Fresh cows are at a higher risk for milk fever, so it’s crucial to monitor them closely during this time. Look for signs of muscle weakness, tremors, or a staggering gait. If you suspect milk fever, contact your veterinarian immediately, as this is a serious condition that requires prompt treatment.

Ensure the cow has access to clean, fresh water at all times. Gradually increase the amount of grain and concentrates in her diet as milk production increases. Monitor her body condition and adjust her feed accordingly.

Raising Healthy Heifers: Focus on Growth, Not Fat

Heifers, or young female cows who haven’t calved yet, have unique nutritional needs to support their growth and development. The goal is to raise healthy heifers that reach maturity with a good body condition, ready for breeding and their future role as milk producers.

Key Considerations for Heifer Feeding

Unlike beef cattle, where rapid weight gain is desired, heifers should grow at a moderate pace. Overfeeding can lead to excessive fat deposition, which can negatively impact their reproductive health and increase the risk of metabolic issues.

Provide access to good-quality hay or pasture. Alfalfa hay is a good option for growing heifers, as it is rich in protein and calcium.

Prevent Overfeeding

Avoid overfeeding heifers with high-energy feeds like grain. While some grain may be necessary in certain situations (e.g., during winter or if forage quality is poor), it should be provided in moderation. Focus on providing a diet that is primarily based on high-quality forage.

Exploring Mixed Feed Options: Commercial vs. Homemade

When it comes to providing a balanced diet for your dairy cows, you have several options.

Commercial Feeds: Convenience and Customization

Commercial dairy rations offer convenience and are formulated to meet the specific needs of cows at different stages of life (lactating, dry, growing). Many feed mills offer customized mixes, allowing you to select organic or non-GMO ingredients.

My Experience with Grain Mills

When we lived in the Midwest, we purchased our feed directly from a local grain mill. This was a cost-effective option, and the mill customized our mix to address mineral deficiencies in our area. However, since moving west, I’ve learned that feed mills can be harder to find. In these cases, consider ordering pre-mixed rations online specifically designed for dairy farming. You can purchase from suppliers like New Country Organics, Azure Standard, and Leland Mills.

Homemade Mixes: Sourcing Local Ingredients

Another option is to create your own mixed rations using local feed sources. For example, in Montana, our neighbors raised oats and barley and sold them directly to the community. This can be a great way to support local farmers and potentially be a great way to save money.

Key Considerations When Choosing Mixed Feeds

Compare prices and consider the long-term affordability of different options. Evaluate the convenience factor of pre-mixed rations versus creating your own. Ingredient quality matters. Prioritize high-quality ingredients, whether you’re buying pre-mixed or sourcing them yourself. Ensure the mix meets the specific nutritional requirements of your cows at their different life stages.

My Homemade Milk Cow Feed Ration Recipe: The “COB” Mix

Many homesteaders and small farms prefer to create their own grain ration using simple, readily available ingredients. One popular option is the “COB” mix, which stands for Corn, Oats, and Barley.

The COB recipe

ingredients:

Corn (organic, if possible)

Organic Barley

Organic Oats

Instructions:

Mix equal parts of each ingredient. This will result in a lower protein feed with approximately 11.5% protein, according to this ration calculator.

Important Considerations:

While the COB mix is a good starting point, it’s important to note that its protein content may be lower than commercial dairy rations. Consider adding alfalfa pellets or other protein sources to balance the ration, especially for lactating cows.

If you’re concerned about GMOs and soybean meal, you can substitute organic field peas for corn. Field peas are higher in protein and can be a good alternative. However, be aware that a high volume of peas can cause acidosis, a potentially fatal condition. If using peas, ensure they are well mixed into the feed, as they can be bitter.

I recommend adding supplements to the COB mix to ensure a balanced diet. I typically add a handful of kelp meal and soak the feed in warm water with a splash of apple cider vinegar.

Determining Feed Intake: A Balancing Act

Providing the right amount of feed is crucial for maintaining your cow’s health and productivity. Here’s how to determine the appropriate daily feed intakes for your milk cow.

The 3:1 Rule

A general rule of thumb is to feed 3 pounds of grain for every gallon of milk produced. So, if your cow is producing 2 gallons of milk per day, she would need around 6 pounds of grain. (Source)

Balancing Forages and Grain

Remember that this 3:1 rule refers only to the grain portion of the diet. You’ll also need to provide adequate roughage in the form of hay or pasture. The ideal ratio of forage to grain will vary depending on factors

Higher-producing cows will need a higher proportion of grain in their diet. If you have access to high-quality forage, you may be able to reduce the amount of grain. Adjust the feed intake based on your cow’s body condition score. If she’s losing weight, increase the amount of feed; if she’s gaining too much weight, decrease it.

Not a Total Mixed Ration (TMR)

Many farmers feed dairy cows using a TMR system to meet their herd’s needs. This is where roughage is mixed with the grains using special equipment.

Our feeding approach is not a Total Mixed Ration (TMR), where all the feed ingredients are mixed together. In this case, we’re feeding the grain and roughage separately.

Roughage: The Foundation of a Cow’s Diet

A good quality roughage, which includes feeds like hay, pasture, and silage, is the cornerstone of the dairy cattle diet. It provides the fiber necessary for proper rumen function and overall digestive health.

The Role of the Rumen

Cows have a unique digestive system that allows them to break down and utilize fibrous plant material that other animals cannot. The rumen, the largest of their four stomachs, is home to a complex community of microbes that ferment fiber, converting it into energy and other essential nutrients. As Joann S. Grohman eloquently puts it in her book Keeping A Family Cow, “It’s grass and hay that end up as milk and cream.”

Types of roughages

There are many types of roughages to consider.

Hay is the most common type of roughage fed to cows. It comes in many varieties, including grasses like timothy, bromegrass, and orchardgrass, as well as legumes like alfalfa and clover. The type of hay available will vary depending on your location and growing season.

Fresh pasture provides excellent nutrition for cows, especially during the growing season. However, pasture quality can fluctuate depending on weather conditions and grazing management.

Silage is fermented forage, typically made from corn or alfalfa. It can be a good option for extending the availability of high-quality feed, especially during the winter months.

Choosing High-Quality Roughage

When selecting roughage for your cow, it’s crucial to prioritize quality. Moldy or dusty hay can cause respiratory problems and other health issues. Leafy and green indicates higher nutritional value. Weeds can reduce the palatability and nutritional value of hay.

If possible, obtain a hay analysis to get a detailed breakdown of its nutritional content.

Water: The Most Important Nutrient

While we often focus on the different types of feed, it’s easy to forget that water is the most essential nutrient for your cow. No matter what stage of life she’s in – lactating, dry, or growing – she needs constant access to fresh, clean water.

Why Water Matters

Water plays a vital role in many bodily functions, including digestion, milk production, and temperature regulation. Water helps break down food and transport nutrients throughout the body. A significant portion of milk is water, so adequate hydration is crucial for milk production. Cows lose water through sweating and respiration, especially in hot weather. Access to water helps them regulate their body temperature and avoid heat stress.

How Much Water Does a Cow Need?

A dairy cow can drink up to 30 gallons of water per day, even more in hot weather or during peak lactation. Always ensure your cow has access to a clean, plentiful water source. Keep water troughs clean and free of debris. Ensure water is easily accessible at all times, especially during hot weather. Cows prefer to drink cool, clean water. Consider providing shade for water troughs in the summer to prevent the water from becoming too warm. Regularly check water troughs to ensure they are full and functioning properly.

Supplements: Enhancing Your Cow’s Diet

While a balanced diet of hay, grain, and fresh water provides the foundation for your cow’s nutrition, supplements can offer additional benefits and address specific needs.

My Supplement Routine

In our area, it’s challenging to find affordable dairy feed, so I’ve developed a supplement routine that complements our own feed ration.

We feed a 50:50 mix of sweet feed and alfalfa pellets.

I add a couple of handfuls of organic dehydrated kelp meal, which is a natural source of minerals and trace elements.

I soak the feed in warm water with about ⅛ cup of apple cider vinegar, which can aid digestion and improve nutrient absorption. I allow this mixture to ferment for 24 hours before feeding.

I add citrus peels to the feed during milking. Cows seem to enjoy the flavor, and it’s a great way to utilize kitchen scraps!

When I remember, I’ll add a few Vitamin E capsules to the feed. Vitamin E is an antioxidant that supports overall health.

Other Beneficial Supplements

BOSS, or Black Oil Sunflowe Seeds, can be added as a top dressing to increase the fat content of the feed, which can be beneficial for weight gain and milk production.

Provide free-choice access to salt, baking soda, and free-choice minerals. These essential nutrients help your cow to self-regulate her intake.

Always introduce new supplements gradually to avoid digestive upset.

Feed Changes: Gradual is Best

Cows have sensitive digestive systems, and sudden changes to their diet can disrupt the balance of their rumen microbes, leading to digestive upset and decreased productivity. To avoid these issues, it’s crucial to introduce new feed ingredients and supplements gradually.

Feed Costs: Budgeting for Your Cow’s Nutrition

Several factors influence feed costs, such as forage availability, feed prices, the cow’s production level, and specific dietary needs. If you have access to good pasture or can grow your own hay, your costs will be lower than if you need to purchase all your feed. Feed prices also fluctuate depending on market conditions, weather patterns, and transportation costs. Higher-producing cows require more feed, which increases costs. Specific dietary requirements, such as organic or non-GMO feed, can also affect costs.

To manage feed costs, utilize pasture whenever possible, as it’s the most affordable feed source. Look for local hay producers to potentially reduce transportation costs. Explore alternative feed options, such as crop residues or byproducts, that may be available at a lower cost. Buying feed in bulk can often lead to discounts. Minimize feed waste by providing well-maintained feeders and storing feed properly. Network with other dairy farmers in your area to share resources and potentially purchase feed together at a lower cost.

It’s essential to budget for feed costs when planning for your family milk cow. Track your feed expenses to identify areas where you can potentially save money. By carefully considering these factors and implementing cost-saving strategies, you can provide your cow with a nutritious diet without breaking the bank.

Creating the Perfect Cow Feed Ration: A Customized Approach

The family milk cow truly is the heart of many homesteads, providing fresh milk and dairy products for the family. To keep her healthy, productive, and happy, it’s essential to provide a well-balanced ration.

Throughout this post, we’ve explored the various aspects of cow nutrition, from understanding your cow’s individual needs to selecting the right feeds and supplements. Remember that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. The ideal milk cow feed ration will vary depending on your cow’s age, stage of lactation, production goals, and available resources.

By following the guidelines and tips shared here, and by closely monitoring your cow’s condition, you can create a customized milk cow feed ration recipe that meets her specific needs and supports her overall well-being. Don’t be afraid to experiment and adjust the ration as needed to find what works best for your cow and your homestead.