How to Feed Carrots to Cattle

Raw root-vegetables lend energy and nutrition to livestock when used properly. When you supplement the dietary needs of your cattle with fresh vegetables, look for veggies that contain little-to-no pesticides. Carrots, unlike onions, will not cause milk to sour in dairy cattle. Fresh carrots are an acceptable way to add nutrition and energy to your cow's diet.

Things You'll Need

  • 35 lbs. of carrots per cow
  • Storage bins
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Instructions

    • 1

      Calculate the cost of the carrots on an energy-versus-water basis. When you pay for feed, you are paying for dry material. Fresh produce contains water; However, carrots offer a substantial amount of energy versus water.

    • 2

      Store fresh carrots for two to three weeks before feeding them to your cattle. Eating too many fresh carrots at once can cause a condition called "scouring," according to Primary Industries and Resources SA. Store fresh carrots in an airtight container.

    • 3

      Feed your cattle at ground level to prevent choking. Hold the carrots low to the ground, if you are hand-feeding your cows or place the carrots into a low feed trough or on the ground. Cows can die from choking, if fed from the wrong height.

    • 4

      Do not feed your cows more than 35 pounds of carrots per day, and do not feed your cows only carrots.