G05-1587 Understandng Effective Fiber in Rations for Dairy Cattle

Authors

Paul J. Kononoff, University of Nebraska at LincolnFollow

Date of this Version

2005

Document Type

Article

Comments

© 2005, The Board of Regents of the University of Nebraska on behalf of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln Extension. All rights reserved.

Abstract

Fiber type, quality and length are key to herd health and production.

Fiber is a key component in dairy rations. When nutritionists are faced with herd challenges such as low milkfat tests, foot problems, or low feed conversions, ration fiber often is evaluated. Effective fiber depends on the type and amount of forages and nonforage fiber sources being fed, the particle size of those forages and the amount of available nonfiberous carbohydrates included in the diet.