440 FEEDING FARM ANIMALS 



remain out on pasture after the nights begin to turn cold 

 or even during the day in weather that produces discom- 

 fort because of its inclemency; (3) allowing them to stay 

 in the yard during the larger portion of even mild days 

 in winter, because of the fact that they rest more con- 

 tentedly in their accustomed stalls. 



The nature of the protection required will depend upon 

 such conditions as the character of the climate and the cost 

 of providing it. The question cannot be discussed here 

 further than to say, that it matters not what the nature of 

 the materials may be which furnish it, providing it secures 

 a temperature between 40 to 60 in winter, ample light, 

 freedom from dampness and a constant supply of pure 

 air. It should also be mentioned that cows, not in milk 

 gather more reserve power for the milking period which 

 follows when given large liberty and more exposure dur- 

 ing the non-milk-giving interval. 



Feeding grain to cows on pasture. The discussion 

 of this question involves the consideration : ( i ) Of the 

 direct return in milk and butter fat from feeding the grain ; 

 (2) the residual effect from such feeding; (3) the saving 

 effected in the pasture and (4) the influence on fertiliza- 

 tion. Notwithstanding that several trials have been con- 

 ducted at various experiment stations, practical men are 

 much divided in their opinions with reference to the ad- 

 vantage from feeding grain to cows on pasture. 



Judged by the direct results obtained from feeding 

 grain to cows on succulent and abundant pastures, the 

 conclusion would be reached that there is no profit in 

 such feeding. In nearly all the trials made there was in- 

 crease in the milk yields and consequently in the butter 

 fat, but not in the percentage of the same. The increased 

 return did not in all instances pay for the grain, but it did 

 in some instances. Little or no direct profit, however, re- 

 sulted. But there was more increase in weight from the 

 animals to which grain was given, which so far meant a 



