Replacing Twenty Percent of Concentrate with Ground Hay in an Alfalfa-Based Diet for Cows in Early Lactation

The objective was to observe performance of cows in early lactation when high quality ground alfalfa hay replaced part of dietary concentrate. Multiparous Holsteins were in two groups of 10 based on previous production and lactation number. Rations consisted of alfalfa-grass hay, alfalfa haylage, and concentrate based on corn, oats, and soymeal. Ground alfalfa replaced 20% of ingredients of the concentrate fed the experimental group. Individuals were fed to extent of appetite with restriction that concentrate dry matter did not exceed 65% of intake (52% if ground hay was considered as forage). Cows were on trial for 109 days, beginning 3 days postpartum.