Straw is a very useful feed if prepared in the right way.

• In dry cow rations it can be used to control energy intake and reduce the risk of milk fever.
• In milking cow rations it can be very useful as physically effective fibre when required.

For either group the key to feeding straw is incorperation to create a homogenous mix. Poorly processed straw will not blend which can encourage cows to sort the ration, making the problem worse rather than better. The straw should be pre-processed, and we find milled straw to provide the best results.

Pictured (left to right) Jeremy Hamiliton & Andy Hawken AMTRA, DipRN Three Counties Feeds