While they do eat hay, especially during the winter when fresh grass isn't available, their natural diet is primarily grass. They are ruminants, meaning their digestive system is designed to efficiently break down the cellulose in grass.
Here's a breakdown:
* Grass: Provides the most natural and essential nutrients for cows, including fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
* Hay: A dried form of grass, used as a supplement when fresh grass isn't available. It helps maintain their digestive health and provides energy during lean months.
So, while hay is important for cows, grass remains their main source of nutrition.