Dairy Cattle
A total of 268 dairy farms produce 1.34 billion pounds of milk in Georgia. Dairy ranks 8th as an agricultural commodity in Georgia. Over 148 herds in Georgia are on DHI. They average over 21,000 pounds of milk and 300 cows each. Our goal is to extend lifelong learning about dairy production and management through research based information.
- DairyFax Newsletter
- Dairy On: UGA Dairy Team Blog
- Southeast Quality Milk Initiative
- Dairy Cattle Feed Requirements
Recent Dairy Publications from UGA Extension
Lane Ely
http://extension.uga.edu/publications/detail.html?number=SB59
John Bernard
http://extension.uga.edu/publications/detail.html?number=SB58
Lane Ely
http://extension.uga.edu/publications/detail.html?number=SB57
See More Publications
Feeding Whole Cottonseed to Dairy Cows and Replacements
(SB 59)
Whole cottonseed is an excellent feed for dairy cattle due to its high level of fiber, protein and energy (fat) in a compact package. It can be fed just as it comes from the gin without processing or may be pelleted before feeding. Whole cottonseed can also be used to stretch limited forage supply. Dairymen should capitalize on this situation as much as possible. Some limiting factors to consider when feeding whole cottonseed are gossypol, high fat content, and the potential for aflatoxin.
Measuring the Dry Matter Content of Feeds
(SB 58)
Adjust rations for the dry matter (DM) content of each feed, especially when wet feeds, such as silage, are fed. Small changes in the DM content will change the nutrient profile of the ration. The potential results of not monitoring the DM content of wet feeds and adjusting rations accordingly are a combination of problems including decreased animal performance and feed efficiency and increased health problems and feed cost.
Guidelines for Using Feeds Containing Aflatoxin in Dairy Rations
(SB 57)
Aflatoxin is formed in stressed plants by the mold Aspergillius flavus. The mycotoxin is produced by an actively growing mold. The mold can be present without mycotoxin formation or the mycotoxin may be present without the mold. The formation of the mycotoxin can occur during storage if the feed is not kept dry. Aflatoxin can be found in many grains and forages but is most commonly found in corn, cottonseed, and peanuts. Recent data indicates the above levels may not be safe for periods of prolonged feeding.