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SLynn

25 Posts
Posted - Jun 08 2017 :  12:49:39 PM  Show Profile  Reply with Quote
Hi All!

Sorry if this topic isn't under the correct forum. I wasn't completely sure where to ask this question. :)

I would like to change the grain that my new dairy cow is currently on. I know I should do this gradually, but I would love some guidelines. Thank you!

maryjane

7072 Posts
Posted - Jun 08 2017 :  1:03:26 PM  Show Profile  Reply with Quote
Any chance you can get some of the old and slowly mix in some of the new until it's all new?
MaryJane Butters, author of Milk Cow Kitchen ~ striving for the stoicism of a cow standing in the rain ~
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SLynn

25 Posts
Posted - Jun 08 2017 :  1:17:52 PM  Show Profile  Reply with Quote
I am actually passing the feed store that carries her current grain on our way home from picking her up. I was going to grab a bag of her old feed, and also get a better quality grain of our choice.

Then, start by mixing mostly her old grain with maybe 1/4 of the new grain? Then increase the new grain gradually over a week or two...or three? I hate to have any old grain left over.

I am so new at this it hurts. Ha!

Thanks for your reply!
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NellieBelle

11214 Posts
Posted - Jun 08 2017 :  2:52:19 PM  Show Profile  Reply with Quote
You are not alone Lynn. We've all been where you are in our milk cow experience and we continue to learn everyday. So we're all in this together. Learning as we go.
To laugh is human but to moo is bovine. Author Unknown
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SLynn

25 Posts
Posted - Jun 08 2017 :  3:40:59 PM  Show Profile  Reply with Quote
Thank you! I remember when we first got our sheep. I had the same "fish out of water" feeling, so I know that I will learn, grow, and gain confidence. I always remind myself when it comes to our homestead: It's a journey, not an event.

Thank you again! :)
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NellieBelle

11214 Posts
Posted - Jun 08 2017 :  3:52:44 PM  Show Profile  Reply with Quote
Everyday, twice a day, after I've milked and looked the girls over, I stand at the barn doors and just observe each one for a time and evaluate them. How are their appetites, change in bowel movements, and behavior. It has made me familiar with each one and their "normal" behavior. So I know when they are coming in heat, or if their is something off. It's worth the time spent, observing, and it's a comforting feeling too. They usually check me out too. I've learned much just watching. Probably the most valuable thing I can do for their wellbeing. Daily assessing.
To laugh is human but to moo is bovine. Author Unknown
Edited by - NellieBelle on Jun 08 2017 3:55:56 PM
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maryjane

7072 Posts
Posted - Jun 08 2017 :  5:35:19 PM  Show Profile  Reply with Quote
She'll let you know how fast or slow you can change her feed. If her old feed has molasses in it, she might shy away from your new feed. Slowly but surely you'll get there.
MaryJane Butters, author of Milk Cow Kitchen ~ striving for the stoicism of a cow standing in the rain ~
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CloversMum

3486 Posts
Posted - Jun 08 2017 :  9:49:10 PM  Show Profile  Reply with Quote
As I've changed feed for my animals, I always watch their poop for any indications of changing too fast.
Loving life and family on our Idaho farm, Meadowlark Heritage Farm; A few Jersey cows; a few alpacas; a few more goats, and even more ducks and chickens
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txbikergirl

3197 Posts
Posted - Jun 09 2017 :  05:34:53 AM  Show Profile  Reply with Quote
yep, farm poop holds all the answers!
Firefly Hollow Farm , our little farmstead. Farmgirl living in the green piney woods of East Texas on 23 acres with a few jerseys, too many chickens, a pair of pugs and my Texan hubby (aka "lover boy")
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