Cafeteria Style Free-Choice Mineral Feeder for Lactating Dairy Cows

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Abstract
In 2 short trials the cafeteria-type free-choice mineral feeder was evaluated as a method of providing minerals and vitamins for lactating Holstein cows under 2 nutritional regimes. Trial 1 was 16 wk in which 2 groups of cows in mid-lactation (10 cows/group) were group-fed rations with either corn silage or alfalfa hay as the sole forage, and all supplemental minerals and vitamins were provided free choice. Trial 2 was 9 wk in which 2 groups of cows in late-lactation (10 cows/group) were group fed rations of corn silage and alfalfa hay. Group 1 was force-fed minerals and vitamins in the grain ration while both groups had access to free-choice minerals. Intake was variable between weeks, and cows selectively consumed some minerals. Bentonite intake remained high during both trials. Little evidence was found that dairy cows offered minerals and vitamins free choice consumed to a specific appetite or need under the 2 nutritional regimes.