Use of total mixed rations (TMR) for dairy cows - Penn State ...

GENERAL APPROACH TO FORMULATING TMRS (CONTINUED)
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
E. Dry cows may need at least five pounds of long- H. Nutrient specification for heifer TMRs are in
stem hay along with a TMR to provide Table 4. Total dry matter intakes are regulated
sufficient “effective fiber”. Monitor intakes of by the bulk of the ration and its energy density.
the TMR so animals do not over- or under- If corn silage is fed heavily in a heifer TMR,
consume. intakes may have to be controlled and more
closely monitored to avoid over conditioning.
F. Dry cows placed in a close-up TMR should be
kept on the ration until the day they freshen.
This applies to both a regular and anionic closeup
ration (see Table 3). The benefits of using a TMR far outweigh the
disadvantages, but each farm has different goals
G. Dry cows that are not grouped and offered one and facilities that may or may not adapt well.
TMR may be fed limited amounts of the milk Each case should be analyzed to find the most
cow TMR, two to three weeks prior to profitable alternative. A carefully designed and
freshening. However, restrictions must be set to well thought-out system will pay off in the long
ensure there is adequate forage dry matter intake run.
and that the nutrient densities of protein,
minerals, and vitamins do not exceed
recommendations for the close-up dry cows.
___________________________________________________________________________________________________
This publication is available in alternative media on request.
The Pennsylvania State University is committed to the policy that all persons shall have equal access to programs, facilities, admission, and
employment without regard to personal characteristics not related to ability, performance, or qualifications as determined by University policy or by
state or federal authorities. The Pennsylvania State University does not discriminate against any person because of age, ancestry, color, disability or
handicap, national origin, race, religious creed, sex, sexual orientation, or veteran status. Direct all inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policy to
the Affirmative Action Director, The Pennsylvania State University, 201 Willard Building, University Park, PA 16802-2801; tel. (814) 863-4700/V,
TDD (814) 865-1150/TTY.
Where trade names appear, no discrimination is intended, and no endorsement by Penn State’s College of Agricultural Sciences is implied.
Issued in furtherance of Cooperative Extension Work, Acts of Congress May 8 and June 30, 1914, in cooperation with the U. S. Department of
Agriculture and the Pennsylvania Legislature. T. R. Alter, Director of Cooperative Extension, The Pennsylvania State University.
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
DAS 94-25 Use of total mixed rations (TMR) for dairy cows
5