24 THE RURAL EFFICIENCY GUIDE STOCK 



matter of feeding. Many cows are unprofitable, however, for the reason that 

 they have been underfed, improperly managed, or allowed to live an easy, 

 unproductive life. 



The following fundamental facts are important to consider in feeding 

 dairy cows: 



That cows are machines which convert feed into milk. 



That each cow requires a maintenance ration whether milking or dry, 

 and that feed additional to the maintenance ration is required for milk pro- 

 duction. 



That feed is the source of milk and that cows produce milk throughout 

 the greater part of their lactation periods in proportion to the kinds and 

 amounts of feed supplied. Cows which are heavy feeders are usually large 

 and economical producers* 



Practical Suggestions on Feeding and Management. Dairy cows require 

 careful attention at all seasons of the year if one hopes to secure the most 

 profitable returns from them. In order to have conditions suitable for suc- 

 cessfully feeding and keeping up a full flow of milk, the following practical 

 suggestions are offered : 



At All Times. Treat cows gently and avoid excitement. The treatment 

 cows receive in these respects has a marked effect on their production. 



Follow a regular schedule of daily work, remembering that cows are 

 creatures of habit. 



Weigh the milk of each cow at each milking. The time spent doing so 

 is well paid for by the increased interest and production it secures. 



Regulate the amount of feed by the milk record and the individuality of 

 each cow. 



Allow free access to salt daily. Granulated or lump stock sale" is most 

 economical. Three-fourths of an ounce per 1,000 Ibs. of live weight daily, 

 plus six-tenths of an ounce for each 20 Ibs. of milk, is regarded sufficient 

 where salt must be mixed with the feed. 



Give cows six to eight weeks rest between lactation periods. Feed them 

 during the resting period in a manner to increase their weight and strength 

 if they are in a rundown condition. 



Discard the cow which has had a fair chance and failed at the end of the 

 year to pay market prices for all the feed she has consumed. One cannot 

 afford to feed and care for cows that do not pay expenses. 



Belong to a dairy cattle breeders' association, a cow testing association 

 and other organizations that will help to keep one posted and in touch with 

 the best up-to-date methods of managing a dairy herd. 



At Calving Time. Have cows in good condition. It gives reserve energy 

 for milk production. 



Keep them in comfortable, clean box stalls, or a suitable place for calving. 



Be prepared to treat an attack of milk fever, which may occur within the 

 first forty-eight hours after calving in the case of cows that have passed their 

 first lactation period. 



