Checking heats and reproductive management is also facilitated because those in similar stages of reproduction are mostly in the high producing group. Disadvantages of Full-Fed Complete Rations Cows should be grouped for feeding. At least three groups are needed. Since handling cows in small groups requires a relatively high labor input, herds of less than about 100 to 150 cows may find this system impractical. Small groups would result in excessive cost per cow for lot facilities, lot cleaning, and moving cows for parlor milking.
Special equipment is needed.
This equipment should be able to weigh, mix the ingredients, and dispense the ration. Such equipment may be impractical for the smaller, loose-housed herds because of its cost. 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.