252 BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. [Jan., 



the tax upon the system of the dam usually lowers her flesh 

 though liberally fed. It follows, therefore, that a dam in good 

 condition when her otfspring is born can nourish it bet- 

 ter than one in low condition. The former has stored up flesh 

 previously which is now drawn upon to feed the offspring. 



Animals that are being fattened must be protected from ex- 

 cessive cold or the cost of food in proportion to the gains made 

 will be materially increased. It is probable, nevertheless, that 

 more loss results from keeping animals too warm and closely 

 confined while being fattened than from exposing them unduly 

 to cold. Recent experiments have shown that animals fattened 

 in sheds with liberty to move about in the same, and also in 

 yards adjacent, have brought higher profit than those tied in 

 the stall. The former consumed more food, but they also 

 made greater gains. 



The degree of the exposure or of the protection that should 

 be given varies with the class of the animal. Sheep, for in- 

 stance, will bear more cold than cattle, and cattle than swine, 

 but it is imperative that all animals that are being fattened shall 

 be protected from storms. Food is expensive heating material. 



The feeder who attains to marked success in this line of 

 v.-ork must study carefully the needs of the animals which he 

 feeds. If the conditions prove too warm through change of 

 weather, more ventilation should be promptly given. If they 

 prove too cold, additional attention should be promptly given. 

 If an animal gets off food, immediate attention must be given 

 to its needs. The more completely comfortable that animals 

 can be kept, the better they will flourish, and it will be the con- 

 stant endeavor of the faithful stockman to make them com- 

 fortable. While engaged in such work, he can never come 

 down from the watch-tower of vigilance, and his reward will 

 be proportioned to the fidelity and intelligence which he has 

 shown in his work. 



Xow I think I should not talk longer on this question, but 

 I will be glad, if any of you have questions, to answer them if 

 I can. 



DISCUSSION. 



Mr. DiMOCK. I would like to ask if you recommend feeds 

 that the cattle do not relish? 



