THE OIL BY-PRODUCTS 211 



basis of its protein content. There are three grades of it 

 on the market, viz., choice, prime, and good. Choice 

 cottonseed meal contains 41 per cent or more of protein; 

 prime contains 38.6 to 41 per cent ; and good contains 36 

 to 38.6 per cent. Cottonseed meal should not contain less 

 than 36 per cent protein ; if it does, it is adulterated. 



Unlike linseed meal, cottonseed meal is not a safe feed 

 to use with impunity for all classes of stock. If fed with 

 discretion, however, it often makes a most profitable addi- 

 tion to the ration. If fed in large amounts for long periods, 

 cottonseed meal may act as a poison to the animal and, in 

 many cases, cause death. It is particularly fatal to hogs. 

 The nature of the poisonous principle has not yet been 

 determined. It also has a costive action. Although its 

 use may prove disastrous if fed carelessly, there is no reason 

 why the careful feeder should not make use of this highly 

 nutritious feed. 



For Growing Animals. — Although high in protein and 

 mineral matter so essential to satisfactory growth, the general 

 use of cottonseed meal is not recommended for this class of 

 farm animals. It should not be used for calves or pigs. 

 For young growing cattle, two or three pounds per day when 

 not on pasture will promote growth. It is not advisable 

 to use it in the rations of colts or lambs, although it is so 

 used sometimes. 



For Fattening Animals. — Cottonseed meal is a very good 

 nitrogenous supplement for fattening cattle. On account 

 of its costive effect and high protein content, it makes an 

 admirable addition to a ration which contains corn and 

 corn silage. It may be used up to four or five pounds per 

 day; in the South, much larger quantities are often fed. 



