For years the question has always been, how do I know if I need to supplement my cows and what’s my best option.\u00a0 Start by evaluating body condition on your cows and get a forage analysis on your hay.\u00a0 If your hay is low in TDN but adequate in protein, you need to consider providing energy to keep cows in the same body condition.\u00a0 If you’ve got lactating cows, the goal should be to keep them from losing body condition.\u00a0 Energy supplementation options include whole corn, soybean hulls and wheat midds.\u00a0 If your hay is low in protein and TDN, you will need to consider an energy and protein supplement.\u00a0 20% cubes, distillers grains, whole cottonseed or winter pastures are good choices.\u00a0 If hay is low in protein but adequate in TDN, a protein supplement would be appropriate.\u00a0 Examples include cottonseed meal, soybean meal, 40% protein cubes, tubs and liquid feed.<\/p>\n
Next comes the question, which product should I buy?\u00a0 Learn to calculate the cost of the specific nutrient to make a wise purchase decision.\u00a0 For example, let’s look at a 20% cube.<\/p>\n