How to Feed Jersey Cows

Similar to thick, stocky deer in appearance, the Jersey cow is light brown with large, dark-rimmed eyes, the smallest of the dairy cow breeds. Although she typically produces less milk than the other dairy cow breeds, the Jersey is prized by farmers and homesteaders alike for the high butterfat content in her milk, which makes her an ideal choice for individuals who want to make homemade butter. Feeding a Jersey cow appropriately requires an understanding of her digestive process and nutritional requirements, as well as her physical condition.

Things You'll Need

  • Mineral mix
  • Hay and pasture
  • Grain
  • Water
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Instructions

    • 1

      Determine your Jersey cow̵7;s reproductive status and physical condition. A dry cow (pregnant but not milking) has different nutritional requirements than a milking Jersey. Similarly, a dry cow that is due to calve (give birth) in just a few weeks has higher nutritional requirements than a dry cow that isn̵7;t due for 4 months. Visually inspect your Jersey, then run your hand along her top line (the top of her back) and her side, checking for excessive thinness or too much weight. You want to be able to feel her ribs easily, but they should not be protruding to the point that she looks gaunt.

    • 2

      Understand your Jersey cow̵7;s nutritional requirements. According to the University of Minnesota Cooperative Extension, dairy cows such as the Jersey require protein and energy, in addition to vitamins, minerals and--of course--water. Providing your Jersey with enough energy and protein in her feed allows her to maintain her body conditioning, grow adequately and also produce milk when she calves. Give her access to a mineral mix formulated for cows to ensure that your Jersey obtains her required minerals.

    • 3

      Understand your Jersey cow̵7;s digestive process. Cows utilize a four-part stomach during digestion, including the rumen, which requires forage (grass pasture or hay) daily to function correctly. In order to avoid digestive upset and potential health problems, always provide your Jersey cow with some kind of forage every day. Grass should be sufficient for all but the coldest months of the year, at which time you̵7;ll need to feed free-choice hay.

    • 4

      Provide your Jersey cow with a well-balanced feed ration. If you purchase a commercial cow feed from a grain mill or farm supply store, make sure it has at least 16 percent protein to ensure your Jersey cow is getting enough protein in her diet. Diane Schivera, the Assistant Director of Agricultural Services for the Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association, states that you should provide approximately 1 pound of grain for every 3 pounds of milk your Jersey cow produces.

    • 5

      Assess your Jersey cow̵7;s condition weekly and adjust the feed ration accordingly. For instance, if she starts to gain too much weight, lower her feed ration. Similarly, you̵7;ll need to increase her feed ration if she experiences an increase in her need for nutrition, such as when she begins producing milk. Regardless of whether she̵7;s milking or dry, don̵7;t forget to ensure that she always has access to an adequate supply of fresh water.