Effect of Hay to Grain Ratio on Utilization of Metabolizable Energy for Milk Production by Dairy Cows

Abstract

Indirect calorimetry was used in total energy balance trials with six mature, lactating, nonpregnant Holstein cows to study the utilization of metabolizable energy (ME) for milk production. An orthogonal set of 3 X 3 extra-period Latin-squares was used. The three rations fed contained 50% (A), 75% (B), and 100% (C) wafered alfalfa hay, based upon estimated net energy (ENE) values, and 50% (A), 25% (B), and 0% (C) of a mixture of corn meal and soybean oil meal. The rations were offered on an equal ENE basis.