Ration Planning to Stretch Hay Supplies for Cows and Feeder Calves

 

Feed shortages caused by drought, excess moisture, or poor forage production require flexible winter-feeding strategies. When hay is limited, producers can consider alternative feeds such as straw, greenfeed, grain screenings, and supplements. However, straw-based rations must be carefully balanced to meet the nutritional needs of cows and growing calves.
Note: Feed prices change frequently. Contact your local Manitoba Agriculture Office for current cost projections and ration assistance.
 
Nutritional Requirements of the Breeding Herd
Nutrient needs vary based on stage of production, body size, and expected performance. Minimum requirements for total digestible nutrients (TDN), crude protein (CP), calcium (Ca), and phosphorus (P) are shown below.
Table 1. General Nutrient Requirements
(percent of diet, dry matter basis)
Class
TDN (%)
CP (%)
Ca (%)
P (%)
Mature Cows – Mid-gestation
50–53
7
0.20
0.20
Mature Cows – Late gestation
58
9
0.28
0.23
Mature Cows – Lactating
60–65
11–12
0.30
0.26
Replacement Heifers
60–65
8–10
0.30
0.22
Breeding Bulls
48–50
7–8
0.26
0.20
Yearling Bulls
55–60
7–8
0.23
0.23
Rations must always be balanced for energy, protein, vitamins, and minerals.
 
Using Straw in Winter Rations
Straw is often the first alternative when hay is short; however, it is low in protein and energy and must be supplemented with:
  • grain
  • protein supplements
  • mineral–vitamin premixes
Key considerations
  • Physical intake is limited due to high fibre.
  • Risk of rumen compaction if straw is fed without adequate protein/energy.
  • Cows require 15–20% more energy when temperatures fall below –20 to –25°C.
  • Late gestation significantly increases nutrient requirements.
Improving Straw Quality
  • Ammoniation improves digestibility and increases protein to 6–7%.
  • Cost depends on anhydrous ammonia.
  • Manitoba Agriculture offices can provide guidance on equipment and procedures.
Refer to Ammoniation of Forage to Improve Quality for details.
 
Alternative Feed Options
When hay is limited, rations can incorporate:
  • greenfeed
  • grain screenings
  • ammoniated straw
  • barley or other grains
  • feedlot supplements
  • balanced minerals and vitamins
Cost of Production resources provide up-to-date ration examples including costs.
Ration possibilities
Even with 14–15 lb of straw, carefully balanced diets using screenings and barley can meet cow requirements at reasonable cost.
Feed Testing
Accurate feed analysis is essential to determine energy and protein content and design an effective ration. Manitoba Agriculture Livestock and Forage Extension Specialists can help balance rations.
 
Additional Winter Feeding Costs
When planning feed budgets, consider:
  • bedding
  • drug and veterinary costs
  • yardage
  • financing
  • death loss
 
Deadstock Disposal
Improper disposal can result in significant fines under Manitoba’s Livestock Manure and Mortalities Regulation.
Approved disposal methods:
  • rendering
  • composting
  • burial
  • incineration
Some municipal landfills accept livestock mortalities—confirm availability ahead of time. Avoid leaving carcasses in remote areas (“back 40”); scavenger disposal is not legal.
 
Pasture Management Considerations
Feed shortages often lead to:
  • declining cow and calf performance
  • protein and energy deficiencies when grazing stubble or poor-quality pasture
Management strategies
  • Provide supplemental feed if condition declines
  • Use annual cropland with temporary fencing
  • Consider early weaning or creep feeding
  • Monitor and secure reliable water sources
Poisonous Plant Risks
Feed scarcity increases the likelihood of cattle consuming toxic plants. Recent issues have involved:
  • water hemlock
  • seaside arrowgrass
  • chokecherry
Watch cattle closely for unusual symptoms when grazing marginal areas.