Cattle feed intake can surge higher than 20 percent to make up for energy expended to keep them warm. Amber Friedrichsen reminds us that a large spread in hay quality across the Midwest exists, making it that much more important to test forage and budget for additional bales or supplemental feed.
In short, a bale ≠ a bale ≠ a bale.
Source: Hay and Forage Grower, December 2, 2025. Link.
In winter hay-feeding systems, testing hay and knowing forage quality will ensure cows meet elevated nutrient requirements, and feeding high-quality hay will ensure those targets are hit more efficiently.”
Image: Link.