How much feed?

[Popa Cosmin]

I feed my cows (Charolaise cow and pregnant heifers) with hay, alfalfa and straw. They have a good, optimal body condition but I find them too bellyful. They groan when they set down.

I feed them too much? Should I reduce the volume of feed? Maintaining the percent of protein and energy off course? Is any danger if they intake to much?

Cosmin

 

[dun]

If by bellyfull you mean pot belly like a middle aged man that's drank too much beer, it could be the volume. You could possibly increase the protein a little and decrease the poorer quality forage that's acting as a filler. Or, how close to calving are they? Being heavy with calf, last 3 months before calving, can also cause that type of look, have a hard time getting up, grunt when they do get up or lay down, etc.

dun