Precise ration formulation and frequent monitoring of ration analysis are necessary. Baled or long hay is a problem because hay must be chopped before it can be blended. Even then it is less desirable because its abrasive effect on mixing equipment reduces its useful life. Furthermore, fine ingredients more easily sift through dry forage, producing variable ration quality. What to Expect from Complete Rations Comparisons of the complete ration system with a system in which the forage and grain are fed separately have shown that the production of cows on the two systems are either similar or slightly higher for the complete ration systems.
Reports generally show no difference in milk fat content for the two systems.
However, higher milk fat tests are sometimes reported when feeding the grain ration several times daily compared to feeding on a twice daily basis. In terms of health, we frequently see reports of reduced digestive problems on the complete feeding system. One report indicated a 10 percent lower veterinary cost by using the complete ration system. There is also some evidence that reproductive performance is better on complete rations compared to parlor feeding. Additional benefits reported for complete rations include a savings in grain purchases because of less waste during feeding.