FEEDING FOR MILK PRODUCTION 



287 



The grain ration was prepared by mixing 100 pounds each 

 of the corn, bran, and oats, and 30 pounds each of the last 

 three named. The cow was fed four times during the twenty- 

 four hours. One pound of dried beet pulp was added to six 

 pounds of the grain mixture, and the entire mass moistened 

 with water some time before feeding. 



DISCUSSION OF COMMON FEED STUFFS 



No particular food or combination of feeds is alone essen- 

 tial to the most economical production of milk. The first 

 consideration is to grow the most suitable crops on the farm 

 in order that the amount purchased may be as small as pos- 

 sible without reducing the efficiency of the ration. In the 

 brief discussion which follows, only the most common feed 

 stuffs are considered. 



Timothy Hay. The value of this hay is often greatly 

 overestimated as a feed for dairy cows. It is unpalatable 

 except when cut early, and will not be consumed in sufficient 

 quantities. The most serious objection is the low protein 



