CATTLE FOODS. 



27 



In considering the groups of nutrients going to make up the 

 various feed stuffs, we leave out of consideration the water and 

 the ash — the latter being present in more than sufficient quanti- 

 ties — and confine ourselves to three great groups of nutrients, 

 the protein, the fat, and the carbohydrates. 



B. USES OP THESE GROUPS. 



The protein in all feeds is the only source of lean meat in 

 animals, and the exclusive source of casein or curd in the milk. 

 It is also a source of heat and energy in the animal body. It is 

 possibly a source of animal fat. 



The fat of the feed is a source of animal fat, and a source 

 of heat and energy. 



The carbohydrates or starchy materials are the great source 

 of heat and energy. 



Aside from the question of palatability, which is always an 

 important one in feeding animals, the problems for us as feed- 

 ers are; first, how most economically to secure these several 

 groups of nutrients; and, second, the correct proportions in which 

 to feed them in order to obtain the most desirable results. 



In beginning a consideration of these problems, it will be 

 wise for us to attempt a general arrangement or classification of 

 all ordinary feed stuffs. 



C. CLASSIFICATION. 



COARSE FEEDS. 



CONCENTRATED FEEDS. 



