Step 1: Estimate the Cow's Body Weight
First, you will need to estimate the weight of your jersey cows. You can use a weigh tape or scale to get an accurate measurement, or you can use the following formula to estimate their weight based on their heart girth measurement (measured in inches):
Weight (in pounds) = (Heart Girth)^2 / 300
For example, if your cow's heart girth is 60 inches, her estimated weight would be:
Weight = (60)^2 / 300 = 1,200 pounds
Step 2: Determine Milk Production
Next, consider the milk production of your cows. Jersey cows typically produce around 18 to 22 quarts of milk per day. Since you mentioned your two cows are giving you about 2 gallons of each day, we'll assume their average milk production is 2 gallons (or 8 quarts) per cow per day.
Step 3: Calculate Grain Requirements
The general rule of thumb for grain feeding is to provide 1 pound of grain for every 3 to 4 pounds of milk produced.
For a cow producing 8 quarts (or 2 gallons) of milk per day, this would mean:
Grain Requirement = 8 quarts / 3 = 2.67 pounds of grain per day
Step 4: Adjust Based on Pasture Quality
The quality and quantity of pasture or hay available to your cows will also affect their grain requirements. If your pasture is lush and provides sufficient nutrition, you may be able to reduce the amount of grain you feed by about 25%. If your pasture is poor, you may need to increase grain feeding.
Final Recommendations:
Based on these calculations, here are the recommended grain amounts for your two jersey cows:
* Cow 1: Approximately 2.67 pounds of grain per day
* Cow 2: Approximately 2.67 pounds of grain per day
This recommendation assumes your cows have access to good quality pasture. If your pasture is poor, you may need to increase the grain feeding by 25%.
It's important to monitor the weight and milk production of your cows and adjust their feed rations as needed. Always provide fresh, clean water for your cows and make sure they have access to salt and mineral licks. Consult with a veterinarian or animal nutritionist for personalized advice on feeding your jersey cows for optimal health and milk production.