58 THE MANAGEMENT AND FEEDING OF CATTLE 



therefore, the food contains much succulence, water is 

 not usually required more frequently than once a day, 

 but when the food is dry the cattle should have access 

 to it at least twice a day. In hot weather in summer, 

 and especially when the grasses lose much of their 

 succulence, cattle will drink with profit more frequently 

 than twice a day. 



Other important considerations. — Prominent among 

 these are : Suitable grading of the animals in winter : 

 furnishing a comfortable bed; the manner of turning 

 out in the spring; the method of changing to dry feed 

 in the autumn; the giving of salt, and the retention of 

 the better foods for the later winter feeding. The rela- 

 tion between progress in development and the fidelity 

 with which these attentions are given is inseparable. 

 To neglect or slight them will be followed by a propor- 

 tionate penalty. 



When the number of animals is not large enough to 

 result in any crowding, it may not be necessary to grade 

 the young animals when fed in stanchions, especially 

 when the difference in the age is not great. But 

 when the difference in age, development, and vigor is 

 considerable, then it is important that grading shall be 

 done to the extent, at least, of making it possible to 

 feed them separately. The less developed animals may 

 then be given feed that is better adapted to their needs. 



The necessity for grading may also arise from the 

 dift'erent uses for which the animals are kept. Some 

 may be intended for beef, when matured, and some for 

 Ijreeding. If the former are to be pushed forward more 

 rapidly than the latter, they must, of course, be fed 

 separately. This may be accomplished by putting a 

 separating fence in the shed or stable in a way that will 

 give each lot access to the feeding mangers. Both 

 classes may be given access to the same yard. Whether 

 they should occupy the same yard by day with mature 

 animals will depend upon circumstances, but the aim 



