The Challenges of Feeding Your Goat Herd, J.D. Kleinschmidt

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The Challenges of Feeding Your The Challenges of Feeding Your Goat Herd in 2012-2013Goat Herd in 2012-2013

&&Considerations When Feeding a Considerations When Feeding a

Goat Herd a TMRGoat Herd a TMR

J. D. Kleinschmidt BSc.(Agr), MSc.

[email protected]

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Feeding the Goat Herd in an Environment of High Feeding the Goat Herd in an Environment of High Feed Costs and Low/ Poor Quality Forage Feed Costs and Low/ Poor Quality Forage

Inventories.Inventories.

This past summer, the United States and parts of Canada experienced the worst drought in more than

half a century.

In Canada the areas most hard hit included most of southern Ontario, Quebec and parts of the Maritimes

and Manitoba.

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In the US the Mississippi River approached record lows, as far as 20 feet below normal. Throughout the Midwest, meager corn harvests began on the some of

the earliest dates ever recorded.

Corn and soybean farms produced far smaller yields, Corn and soybean farms produced far smaller yields, which is affecting livestock production and impacting which is affecting livestock production and impacting

food prices worldwide.food prices worldwide.

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Adverse weather conditions like drought present the goat producer with some major challenges:

1.1.The largest problem is having enough forage The largest problem is having enough forage available to feed all animal groups.available to feed all animal groups.

1.The second significant problem is forage quality.

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3.The third issue (and in many peoples minds the most important issue) is the economics of the

situation:Forage quantities are limited, to buy more forages is Forage quantities are limited, to buy more forages is expensive and often prohibitive (that’s if you can find expensive and often prohibitive (that’s if you can find some!).some!).Grains, proteins and by-products are at all time high $/TonneThe palatability of the items being evaluated and The palatability of the items being evaluated and their suitability for use in the feeding system should their suitability for use in the feeding system should also be considered.also be considered.

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In addition to the aforementioned items, there are other risk factors that occur during a drought that can

have a substantial impact on animal performance.

Listeria, nitrates, mycotoxins, molds, prussic acid, and Listeria, nitrates, mycotoxins, molds, prussic acid, and other poisons can jeopardize both production and other poisons can jeopardize both production and

health of animals. health of animals.

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Feeding Silage to Goats: The Pros and Feeding Silage to Goats: The Pros and the Cons the Cons (Let’s address this right off the top)(Let’s address this right off the top)

Goats are natural browsers in the wild, being very selective of what they eat.

If the seasonal nutritive values of browse and other If the seasonal nutritive values of browse and other feedstuffs decline or fluctuate, silage can be a good feedstuffs decline or fluctuate, silage can be a good alternative, especially in production situations that alternative, especially in production situations that

require consistent nutrition on a daily basis. require consistent nutrition on a daily basis. Feeding silage to goats is generally safe but does come

with some risks and challenges, but there is nothing but there is nothing inherently wrong with feeding silage to goats. inherently wrong with feeding silage to goats.

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Feeding Silage to Goats: The Pros and Feeding Silage to Goats: The Pros and the Consthe Cons

As with all forages, quality and nutritional value, as well as price, should be the deciding factors when

considering feeding silage to goats.

While silages are an excellent way to preserve forages, While silages are an excellent way to preserve forages, improperly processing, ensiling and possible improperly processing, ensiling and possible

mishandling after ensiling can result in a dangerous mishandling after ensiling can result in a dangerous product that will have an ill/deadly effect on goats. product that will have an ill/deadly effect on goats.

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Corn silage, haylage, small grain silage and baled haylage are all potential ensiled feeds for goats.

The biggest concern from a goat perspective with The biggest concern from a goat perspective with spoiled, or poorly ensiled haylage is the risk of spoiled, or poorly ensiled haylage is the risk of

listeriosis. listeriosis. The bacteria causing the disease will not survive in

silage where the pH is below 5.6.The bacteria will survive in pockets of spoiled silage, such as the bag closure and any punctures that have

allowed air in.

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Remember that spoiled silage left in the feeders can contaminate good quality silage, resulting in

perpetuation of the problem. Because the ensiling process takes a minimum of 3 Because the ensiling process takes a minimum of 3

weeks to complete, listeria may be present during this weeks to complete, listeria may be present during this time period, since the pH won’t necessarily have time period, since the pH won’t necessarily have

dropped below 5.6 during this time.dropped below 5.6 during this time.I prefer my clients to wait MUCH longer than 3 weeks

to feed out any ensiled feed (3 months)!

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Bottom line: fermented feeds can be fed to goats.Bottom line: fermented feeds can be fed to goats.To help reduce the risk of losses to Listeriosis:lAlways be conscious of the risk of listeriosis Always be conscious of the risk of listeriosis lDo a top job of harvesting and storing haylagelCheck bags frequently for holes and seal promptlyCheck bags frequently for holes and seal promptlylNever feed spoiled haylage to goats lWait at least 3 weeks Wait at least 3 weeks (!)(!) after ensiling before feeding after ensiling before feeding

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6. Start goats on haylage gradually (as with all feed changes)

7.7. Provide plenty of clean drinking water Provide plenty of clean drinking water 8. Use a feeding system that minimizes waste and

trampling (TMR)9.9. Clean up refused feed regularly isolate and treat Clean up refused feed regularly isolate and treat

sick animals sick animals 10. Remember that the disease is contagious to

humans as well - Use care when handling sick animals

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What to do about 2012 feed???What to do about 2012 feed???

There are many strategies that livestock producers can do to get thru the 2012-2013 production year.

Some of these strategies we are too late for in in early Some of these strategies we are too late for in in early 2013, but I guarantee you, for the young producers 2013, but I guarantee you, for the young producers out there, you will go thru this at least once more in out there, you will go thru this at least once more in

your careers (take notes!).your careers (take notes!).

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1.1. Plant annuals (too late!)Plant annuals (too late!)Additional forages may be grown to help supplement

forage supplies. Oats, peas, triticale, wheat and rye grass, provide an option for additional forage (must have some moisture).

These forages could either be used in diets of lactating These forages could either be used in diets of lactating animals or as forage sources for young stock to animals or as forage sources for young stock to increase the supply of higher quality forages for increase the supply of higher quality forages for the lactating herd. the lactating herd.

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3.3. Source forages from outside sources (possibly too Source forages from outside sources (possibly too late)late)

Drought conditions result in reduced home grown forages. Being proactive on sourcing additional Being proactive on sourcing additional forage can be beneficial as availability of forages forage can be beneficial as availability of forages may be reduced and prices will continue to rise as may be reduced and prices will continue to rise as demand increases.demand increases.

I recommended my clients buy any needed forages at I recommended my clients buy any needed forages at the end of last summer before prices got way out the end of last summer before prices got way out of hand (they will be CRAZY before 1of hand (they will be CRAZY before 1stst cut). cut).

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4.4. Purchase drought-stressed corn to harvest for Purchase drought-stressed corn to harvest for silage (again probably too late)silage (again probably too late)

EveEven though drought-stressed corn may not result in feed values equal to corn silage grown during a normal year, it can still be a good source of feed. Increased opportunities for purchasing drought-stressed corn for silage are likely in areas where corn is commonly grown for grain. However, the However, the moisture of these crops must be monitored closely moisture of these crops must be monitored closely to be sure the crop will ensile and ferment to be sure the crop will ensile and ferment correctly, and nitrate testing needs to be done.correctly, and nitrate testing needs to be done.

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4.4. Use non-forage fiber sources in dairy diets ($$$ in Use non-forage fiber sources in dairy diets ($$$ in 2013)2013)

Consider reformulating diets to include non-forage fiber sources and reduce the inclusion of forages in the diets of your goats.

Although some eNDF is necessary in a ruminant’s diet, Although some eNDF is necessary in a ruminant’s diet, non-fiber feed sources, such soybean hulls, corn non-fiber feed sources, such soybean hulls, corn gluten feed and cottonseed hullsgluten feed and cottonseed hulls can help to meet the animal’s fiber requirements.

Less expensive effective fiber such as straw or low Less expensive effective fiber such as straw or low quality hay may be added.quality hay may be added.

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5.5.Focus on proper forage harvest techniques Focus on proper forage harvest techniques (for goat produces this is ESSENTIAL)(for goat produces this is ESSENTIAL). . Proper management and techniques at harvest will reduce losses and wasted forage. Even though proper Even though proper management at harvest is always important, forage management at harvest is always important, forage shortages further increase the importance of properly shortages further increase the importance of properly preserving as much forage as possible. preserving as much forage as possible. Paying attention to forage moisture levels, use of Paying attention to forage moisture levels, use of inoculants and proper packing of silages help to insure inoculants and proper packing of silages help to insure that the harvested forage will be properly preservedthat the harvested forage will be properly preserved..

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6.6.Store forages properly.Store forages properly.Harvested forages only will be available to be fed if they are stored properly throughout the year. Feed losses can quickly increase feed cost. Use the following feed management practices to help minimize these losses:

Properly cover silageProperly cover silagePack bunkers and piles well Limit access by raccoons and other wildlife Limit access by raccoons and other wildlife

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Manage the face of bunkers, bags, and upright silos

Prevent losses when storing concentrates Prevent losses when storing concentrates and/or commodities. and/or commodities.

Check scales on the grinder mixer and/or TMR mixer to make sure they are working properly

Routinely measure DM content of ensiled Routinely measure DM content of ensiled forages. forages.

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7.7. Reduce waste feedReduce waste feed Pay special attention to how much feed is being

wasted at various points on the farm. Reduce the amount of feed refusals from groups or Reduce the amount of feed refusals from groups or

utilize the refusals in the diets of other animals, utilize the refusals in the diets of other animals, when appropriate, can help to minimize wastage. when appropriate, can help to minimize wastage.

Keep the area around commodity storage clean and tidy can also help to prevent shrink and feed waste.

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8.8. Test foragesTest foragesRunning analysis on forages is necessary to know the

quality of the forages and to properly balance rations.

Without having the forage tested, it is impossible to Without having the forage tested, it is impossible to know the nutritional value of the feed.know the nutritional value of the feed.

Other nutritional concerns, such as nitrates, also are a Other nutritional concerns, such as nitrates, also are a greater risk in drought years. greater risk in drought years.

Be sure to have the feeds tested at a certified Be sure to have the feeds tested at a certified laboratory.laboratory.

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9.Inventory the feeds currently available on the farmDetermine the amounts and quality of the forage sources currently available on the farm to determine if and how much additional forage may be needed. Remember that carry-over of corn silage is necessary Remember that carry-over of corn silage is necessary to allow time for next year’s crop to ferment to allow time for next year’s crop to ferment (minimum of 3 months of additional corn silage (minimum of 3 months of additional corn silage should be available).should be available).

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10.10. Sort forages by their quality. Sort forages by their quality. Energy is the most difficult nutrient to provide to

lactatinglactating animals. Thus, they need to consume the higher-energy forages available.

Within the milking herd, the highest-quality forages Within the milking herd, the highest-quality forages should be fed to the early-lactation animals, high-should be fed to the early-lactation animals, high-producing group, and/or fresh animals. producing group, and/or fresh animals.

Share the inventory of available foragesShare the inventory of available forages with your nutritionist and develop a plan for using available evelop a plan for using available forages.forages.

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10.10. Sort forages by their quality. Sort forages by their quality. For meat animals, the highest quality forage should be For meat animals, the highest quality forage should be

reserved for animals prior to breeding (flushing) reserved for animals prior to breeding (flushing) and for lactating animals particularly for those and for lactating animals particularly for those feeding multiples.feeding multiples.

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11.11.Group Animals to Improve Feeding Decisions:Group Animals to Improve Feeding Decisions:1. Early to mid lactation animals: These are the ‐current money makers in the herd. They require large amounts of good quality feed to maintain production.2. Late lactation animals: These goats are on the back Late lactation animals: These goats are on the back end of their productive lactation and most of their end of their productive lactation and most of their feed intake will be used to maintain body condition.feed intake will be used to maintain body condition.3. 3. Goats close to kidding: Should receive a ration similar to early lactation animals to maintain body condition, to help prevent kidding difficulties, and to promote milk production after kidding.

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4.Young stock: A maintenance ration is usually sufficient, but it is important to remember they are the future milk makers in the herd.

If animals are sorted and feed rations are mixed to If animals are sorted and feed rations are mixed to fulfill the requirements of the respective groups, then fulfill the requirements of the respective groups, then

feed costs can potentially be minimized based on a feed costs can potentially be minimized based on a certain milk production level.certain milk production level.

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15.15. Keep rumen health a top priorityKeep rumen health a top priority

A healthy rumen environment, regardless of ration changes, is critical for consistent performance.

Focus on rumen pH and maintaining a neutral Focus on rumen pH and maintaining a neutral environment to allow rumen microbes to thrive.environment to allow rumen microbes to thrive.

Sodium bicarbonate free choice or 28 g/h/day?Sodium bicarbonate free choice or 28 g/h/day?

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13.13.Cull Cull Reducing the numbers of animals that need to be fed

will help to stretch forage inventories.Ensure that the animals being retained on the farm Ensure that the animals being retained on the farm

are healthy and profitable for the operation. are healthy and profitable for the operation. AnimalsAnimals with longer days in milk and short bred,

problem breeders, and those with milk production below the level needed to cover feed costs may need

to be culled or dried off early.

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14.14.Constantly review balanced rations for the milking Constantly review balanced rations for the milking herd. herd. The dry weather pattern has greatly changed the quality of forages available to feed the milking herd.In addition, commodity prices are fluctuating widely. In addition, commodity prices are fluctuating widely. To deal with these rapidly fluctuating feed costs, To deal with these rapidly fluctuating feed costs, producers will need to balance and evaluate feeding producers will need to balance and evaluate feeding programs more frequently than in previous years.programs more frequently than in previous years.Working closely with your nutritionist is very important to capitalize on any available feed savings.

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15.15. Consider replacing some corn and soybean meal Consider replacing some corn and soybean meal with lower-priced commodities in diets.with lower-priced commodities in diets.

Goats need nutrients, not ingredients, to support body maintenance, milk production, and growth.

Replacing some of the corn, soybean meal, or other Replacing some of the corn, soybean meal, or other high-priced commodities in the diet can reduce high-priced commodities in the diet can reduce feed costs. feed costs.

Commodities and by-products increase in price alongside increased prices seen for corn and soybean meal.

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What to do???What to do???Computer programs such as:FeedVal(FREE!)http://www.uwex.edu/ces/dairynutrition/spreadsheets.cfmSesame http://www.sesamesoft.com can be used to calculate the feeding or nutritional value of these feeds. If these feeds can be purchased more cheaply than If these feeds can be purchased more cheaply than their price based on nutritional value, they may be their price based on nutritional value, they may be able to partially substitute for higher-priced able to partially substitute for higher-priced ingredients.ingredients.

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Feeding drought stressed corn Feeding drought stressed corn silagesilage

Drought-stricken corn can make nutritious silage:Absence of ears does not imply that corn silage lacks Absence of ears does not imply that corn silage lacks fermentable energy. fermentable energy. Forage portions should contain reasonably high levels of soluble sugars. As corn approaches maturity, the energy level and As corn approaches maturity, the energy level and dry matter yield increase. It is recommended to allow dry matter yield increase. It is recommended to allow corn to develop as fully as possible (even w/o ears).corn to develop as fully as possible (even w/o ears).

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There are wide variations in the nutritive content of drought-stressed corn silage.

It may have an energy value 85 to 100 percent of It may have an energy value 85 to 100 percent of normal corn silage, or it may be quite different. normal corn silage, or it may be quite different.

A standard forage analysis is highly recommended, along with testing for levels of nitrates.

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Another weather-related complication is frost on drought-stressed corn.

When frost occurs on immature plants, it will appear When frost occurs on immature plants, it will appear drier than unfrosted corn of the same moisture drier than unfrosted corn of the same moisture

content. content. Even though leaves may brown off along the edges

and dry rapidly after a few sunny days, the green stalk and ears do not.

The crop will continue to accumulate dry matter and The crop will continue to accumulate dry matter and should be left in the field until it reaches the should be left in the field until it reaches the

appropriate moisture content.appropriate moisture content.

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Immature plants that are killed will likely contain too much moisture for immediate ensiling.

These plants will dry slowly and dry matter losses will These plants will dry slowly and dry matter losses will increase as the dead plants drop their leaves. increase as the dead plants drop their leaves.

The best option is to leave the crop in the field until it reaches the appropriate dry matter level.

Drought-damaged corn is usually lower in energy and Drought-damaged corn is usually lower in energy and dry matter, but similar or higher than usual in protein dry matter, but similar or higher than usual in protein

level. level.

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Feeding drought stressed corn Feeding drought stressed corn silage: At The Barn Levelsilage: At The Barn Level

Supplement with other forages to avoid excess intake and dilute potentially dangerous silage.

Feed a small number of animals and observe Feed a small number of animals and observe carefully before feeding a large number of animals.carefully before feeding a large number of animals.

Feed poorer quality feed to low producing animals.

Since immature corn is high in nitrates and NPN, Since immature corn is high in nitrates and NPN, limit the amount of urea in the total ration. limit the amount of urea in the total ration.

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Feeding drought stressed corn Feeding drought stressed corn silage: At The Barn Levelsilage: At The Barn Level

Adding grain (carbohydrates) will improve fermentation and silage quality, but cost must be considered.

Add non-protein nitrogen (NPN), such as urea, only Add non-protein nitrogen (NPN), such as urea, only to corn silage at the right moisture level (60-70%). If to corn silage at the right moisture level (60-70%). If the silage does not ferment (too dry), losses will the silage does not ferment (too dry), losses will occur as ammonia gas. If seepage occurs (too wet), occur as ammonia gas. If seepage occurs (too wet), the NPN will leach out since it is water-soluble. the NPN will leach out since it is water-soluble.

Well-balanced rations minimize stress on the animals.

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Feeding drought stressed soybeansFeeding drought stressed soybeans

Drought or immature soybean plants can be used as a forage crop (soybean hay & silage).

Plants should be allowed to mature as much as Plants should be allowed to mature as much as possible before harvesting.possible before harvesting.

Plant moisture should drops below 60 to 65% for ensiled product.

If possible, mix soybeans with other forages, If possible, mix soybeans with other forages, preferably during ensiling to enhance palatability. preferably during ensiling to enhance palatability.

Soybean forage is high in calcium and should be Soybean forage is high in calcium and should be avoided as the major forage source for animals close avoided as the major forage source for animals close

to kidding.to kidding.

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Feeding drought stressed soybeansFeeding drought stressed soybeans

The stems of soybean plants are not very palatable, and animals will sort them out if given the

opportunity; chopping into a total mixed ration will help reduce sorting.

If soybean forage contains substantial amounts of If soybean forage contains substantial amounts of developed beans, you may need to reduce the amount developed beans, you may need to reduce the amount

of other fats and oils in the ration for lactating cows of other fats and oils in the ration for lactating cows based on the analyzed fat content of the soybeans.based on the analyzed fat content of the soybeans.

As with any forage, soybeans should be analyzed for their nutrient content.

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Drought and feed poisoning in goatsDrought and feed poisoning in goats

The incidence of listeriosis,listeriosis, nitrate poisoning, molds nitrate poisoning, molds and mycotoxinand mycotoxin and other problems may be increased when crops are grown or harvested under extreme

weather conditions; however, these may be kept to a minimum if good judgment is used.

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ListeriosisListeriosis

Listeriosis is a brain-stem disease caused by the bacteria Listeria monocytogenes, which is found in

soil, water, plant litter, silage, and even in the goat's digestive tract.

There are two forms of Listeriosis: There are two forms of Listeriosis: 1.One form results in abortions2.Other causes encephalitis.

Because some goats are carriers who never display Because some goats are carriers who never display any symptoms, it is possible to buy infected animals any symptoms, it is possible to buy infected animals

and introduce this disease into a previously uninfected and introduce this disease into a previously uninfected herd.herd.

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Listeriosis is brought on by: Feeding moldy silage Feeding moldy silage Suddenly changing type and kind of feed (grain or hay)Parasitism Parasitism Dramatic weather changesAdvanced stages of pregnancyAdvanced stages of pregnancy

The encephalitic form is most common, causing

inflammation of the nerves in the goat's brain stem.

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Symptoms include some or all of the following: Depression Depression Decreased appetite FeverFeverLeaning or stumbling or moving in one direction only, head pulled to flank with rigid neck Facial paralysis on one sideFacial paralysis on one sideBlindnessSlack jaw, and drooling.Slack jaw, and drooling.

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Diarrhea is present only in the strain of Listeriosis which causes abortions and pregnancy toxemia.

Immediate treatment is critical.Immediate treatment is critical. There is no time to There is no time to waste with Listeriosis.waste with Listeriosis.

Treatment involves administration of high doses of procaine penicillin (talk to your veterinarian regarding

protocol).

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Nitrate poisoning in goatsNitrate poisoning in goats

The potential for high nitrate levels occurs when crops such as corn, sorghum, and some grasses are exposed

to stress situations including drought, hail, frost, cloudy weather and fertility imbalance.

The potential for nitrate poisoning is exasperated in The potential for nitrate poisoning is exasperated in crops that have been heavily fertilized with manure or crops that have been heavily fertilized with manure or

nitrogen.nitrogen.Nitrate levels generally decrease somewhat during ensiling, as dangerous nitrogen oxide gas is formed.

However, nitrate levels may increase in hay if it undergoes heating and molding in the bale.

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Nitrate toxicity may result when animals suddenly consume large amounts of forage containing 2-3 % or

more nitrate ion on a DM basis: Forage with lower levels may adversely affect Forage with lower levels may adversely affect reproduction or become toxic if animals are reproduction or become toxic if animals are nutritionally stressed and suddenly eat large amounts nutritionally stressed and suddenly eat large amounts of such forage.of such forage.Animals may develop blue mucous membranes from lack of oxygen in the blood.Rumen paralysis may occur. Rumen paralysis may occur. Labored or difficult breathing may be observed.Animals may go down and die suddenly.Animals may go down and die suddenly.

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Subacute or chronic nitrate poisoning may result in more of the usual reproductive problems, including

abortions. Milk production and appetite generally are not Milk production and appetite generally are not

affected by subacute nitrate intake.affected by subacute nitrate intake.Reproductive problems generally may be prevented if feeds are gradually introduced and the nitrate level in

the total ration DM is kept below 0.40%.

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Risk of nitrate poisoning may be reduced by the following:

Do not harvest suspected crops for three to five days after an appreciable rain or long cloudy spell.

Harvest as close to usual maturities as possible.

Cut the crop somewhat higher above the ground than usual as nitrate often accumulates in stems. Contentious as forage is needed! The fermentation The fermentation process will degrade 30-50% of the nitrates and there process will degrade 30-50% of the nitrates and there will be a dilution effect with other forages.will be a dilution effect with other forages.

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Gradually introduce suspected forage into the ration over a period of one to two weeks and don't feed it to hungry animals. Utilize suspected material for silage rather than Utilize suspected material for silage rather than green-crop (I green-crop (I nevernever recommend green chop corn recommend green chop corn silage). silage). Test all forages and water in the ration for nitrates if one forage contains over 1.0 percent nitrate on a DM basis. Feed at least 1.5-2.25 kg of concentrate per head per day when suspected forages are fed (dilution and energy).

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Nitrate levels in forages for goatsNitrate levels in forages for goats

Nitrate Ion % Nitrate Nitrogen ppm Recommendations

0.0-0.44 <1000 Safe to feed under all conditions

0.44-0.66 1000-1500

Safe to feed to non-pregnant animals. Limit use for pregnant animals to 50% of total ration on a DM basis.

0.66-0.88 1500-2000Safely fed if limited to 50% of the total DM ration.

0.88-1.54 2000-3500

Feeds should be limited to 35-40% of the total DM in the ration. Feeds over 2000 ppm nitrate nitrogen should not be fed to pregnant animals

1.54-1.76 3500-4000Feeds limited to 25% of total DM in the ration. Do not feed to pregnant animals.

Over 1.76 >4000Feeds containing these levels are potentially toxic. DO NOT FEED.

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Molds & MycotoxinsMolds & Mycotoxins

Weather conditions during growing and harvesting seasons may appreciably increase the incidence

and degree of moldy feed and mycotoxin problems from year to year:

Fusarium toxins are more likely to occur under Fusarium toxins are more likely to occur under cool, wet conditions during growth, harvesting, cool, wet conditions during growth, harvesting, and storage.and storage.

Hot, humid conditions favor the development of aflatoxins.

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Delaying harvest to increase maturity and reduce moisture levels, or to avoid muddy field conditions, may result in increased mold growth and mycotoxin formation.

Storing grains, feedstuffs, and forages at moisture Storing grains, feedstuffs, and forages at moisture levels beyond recommended ranges or in poor storage levels beyond recommended ranges or in poor storage units also may increase mold-related problems. units also may increase mold-related problems.

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Moldy feed won't always contain mycotoxins, but the presence of considerable mold in itself may

adversely affect production and health. Molds can have detrimental affects in cows when the Molds can have detrimental affects in cows when the

immune system is suppressed during stressful immune system is suppressed during stressful periods. periods.

The effect of high mold loads can occur in locations such as the lungs, mammary gland, uterus, or

intestine. In the field I have seen feed lot animals In the field I have seen feed lot animals stop eating completely with disastrous results stop eating completely with disastrous results

because of high mold load in high moisture corn. because of high mold load in high moisture corn.

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Molds & MycotoxinsMolds & Mycotoxins Under some conditions, molds may produce potent

mycotoxins at levels that may adversely affect animal production and health such as higher

incidence of disease, poor reproductive performance, or suboptimal milk production.

There also is a potential public health concern when There also is a potential public health concern when milk contain a level of aflatoxin, a potent milk contain a level of aflatoxin, a potent

carcinogen.carcinogen.The effects of mycotoxins are cumulative over a

period of time and the presence of more than one mycotoxin may increase these effects.

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Molds & MycotoxinsMolds & Mycotoxins Mycotoxins may develop in almost any feedstuff

during the growing season, at harvest, or during storage.

While grains receive the most attention, by-product While grains receive the most attention, by-product feeds, protein concentrates, finished feeds, feeds, protein concentrates, finished feeds,

oilseeds, wet brewers grains, food wastes, and oilseeds, wet brewers grains, food wastes, and forages may also contain mycotoxins.forages may also contain mycotoxins.

Whole-plant corn silage and haylage are more likely to be contaminated than hays.

Heat-processing and ensiling do not destroy mycotoxins.

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It is important to note that signs of mycotoxin toxicity mimic those of other metabolic and infectious diseases:

Reduced intake or feed refusalReduced intake or feed refusal Reduced nutrient absorption and impaired

metabolism Altered endocrine and exocrine systemsAltered endocrine and exocrine systems Suppressed immune function Altered microbial growthAltered microbial growth

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Individual MycotoxinsIndividual Mycotoxins

Aflatoxins are extremely toxic, mutagenic, and carcinogenic compounds.

Deoxynivalenol (DON) or Vomitoxin is commonly Deoxynivalenol (DON) or Vomitoxin is commonly detected in feed.detected in feed.

T-2 toxin is a very potent mycotoxin that occurs in a low proportion of feed samples.

Zearalenone is a mycotoxin that has a chemical Zearalenone is a mycotoxin that has a chemical structure similar to estrogen and can produce an structure similar to estrogen and can produce an estrogenic response in cows.estrogenic response in cows.

Fumonsisin is much less potent in ruminants than in hogs, but it is toxic in ruminants. OTHERS…

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Mycotoxins TestingMycotoxins Testing

Testing for mycotoxins should be considered when signs of potential effects on performance and health exist and cannot be readily explained.

This is particularly important when moldy feeds are being fed or when marked changes in production or health have occurred among a relatively large

proportion of animals. Analytical techniques for mycotoxins are improving

and costs are lowering.

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Treatment of Molds & MycotoxinsTreatment of Molds & Mycotoxins

Eliminate other possible causes as soon as possible with the help of nutritionists, veterinarians and other consultants.Properly adjust energy contents of any moldy feeds Properly adjust energy contents of any moldy feeds or lightweight grains in the ration. or lightweight grains in the ration. Clean moldy grains and remove fines from whole grains suspected of having mycotoxins. Adding mycotoxin binders to contaminated diets has Adding mycotoxin binders to contaminated diets has been considered the most promising dietary approach been considered the most promising dietary approach to reduce effects of mycotoxins. to reduce effects of mycotoxins.

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Test the ration or most of its components for mycotoxins.

Consider testing to help eliminate other possible Consider testing to help eliminate other possible causes of the adverse effects. Other tests on feed, causes of the adverse effects. Other tests on feed, disease testing via feces, blood, and possibly disease testing via feces, blood, and possibly metabolic profiling may be necessary. metabolic profiling may be necessary.

Discontinue or severely restrict use of obviously moldy feed or suspected non-moldy feed pending test reports.

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Animals a few weeks to several months of age are more susceptible to mold and mycotoxin problems.

Likewise, animals close to parturition or in early Likewise, animals close to parturition or in early lactation are more sensitive to mold and mycotoxins. lactation are more sensitive to mold and mycotoxins.

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Considerations When Feeding a Goat Considerations When Feeding a Goat Herd a TMRHerd a TMR

What are the advantages of TMR feeding?Each mouthful of feed that the goat consumes Each mouthful of feed that the goat consumes contains the proper amount of ingredients for a contains the proper amount of ingredients for a balanced ration. This results in a more stable and ideal balanced ration. This results in a more stable and ideal environment for the rumen microbes environment for the rumen microbes The incidence of digestive and metabolic problems often decreases. A TMR provides greater accuracy in formulation and A TMR provides greater accuracy in formulation and feeding if managed properly. Using feed scales allows feeding if managed properly. Using feed scales allows the quantity of each ingredient fed to be closely the quantity of each ingredient fed to be closely controlled. controlled.

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The Six Most Common Mistakes ofThe Six Most Common Mistakes ofTMR FeedersTMR Feeders

1.1.They over mix.They over mix.

Most mixers call for 3 to 10 minutes3 to 10 minutes of mixing time after all ingredients have been added.

Over mixing will cause separation of ingredientsseparation of ingredients (especially if the mix is dry), reduced forage particle

size and pulverize the feed.

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1.1. They over mix.They over mix.

Most mixers call for 3 to 10 minutes of mixing time after all ingredients have been added.

Over mixing will cause separation of ingredients Over mixing will cause separation of ingredients (especially if the mix is dry), reduced forage (especially if the mix is dry), reduced forage particle size and pulverize the feed, leading to particle size and pulverize the feed, leading to digestive upset, displaced abomasums, laminitis digestive upset, displaced abomasums, laminitis and reduced butter fat.and reduced butter fat.

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2.2.They don’t moisture test. They don’t moisture test. TMR feeding forces animals to eat a specific amount of forage. The disadvantage can occur if the moisture content of the forage is not watched constantly. For example, if the TMR calls for 3 kg of haylage at For example, if the TMR calls for 3 kg of haylage at 50% moisture this provides 1.5 kg of DM. But, if the 50% moisture this provides 1.5 kg of DM. But, if the moisture of the haylage changes to 60%, this would moisture of the haylage changes to 60%, this would provide 1.2 kg of DM. This would leave the ration provide 1.2 kg of DM. This would leave the ration deficient in fibre and protein.deficient in fibre and protein.This would leave the ration deficient in fibre and This would leave the ration deficient in fibre and protein.protein.

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3.3. They feed free-choice forage. They feed free-choice forage. Baled hay fed separately from the TMR can be

necessary if there is a shortage of eNDF in the TMR.

Generally, nutritionists agree that a small amount of Generally, nutritionists agree that a small amount of hay fed separately from the TMR is acceptable. hay fed separately from the TMR is acceptable.

However, feeding hay separately can cause more problems than it prevents. The problem occurs

when goats are given a choice between the TMR and baled hay.

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In order to meet fibre requirements, the goat must consume her specified amount of baled hay. If the goat does not eat any hay, her ration will consist

entirely of the TMR.

This TMR probably contains 16 to 17% ADF, so once This TMR probably contains 16 to 17% ADF, so once again she is in an acidosis-prone situation. If a goat again she is in an acidosis-prone situation. If a goat

over consumes hay and does not eat her TMR, she is over consumes hay and does not eat her TMR, she is shortchanging herself in terms of by-pass proteins and shortchanging herself in terms of by-pass proteins and

dense energy feeds.dense energy feeds.

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4.4. They top-dressing. They top-dressing. Top-dressing can have its place with some TMR’s but

there must be EXCELLENT communication between the nutritionist and the producer.

New TMR users are reluctant to believe animals can New TMR users are reluctant to believe animals can get all the grain or protein she needs out of the get all the grain or protein she needs out of the

TMR. Therefore, they have a tendency to overdo TMR. Therefore, they have a tendency to overdo the top-dress.the top-dress.

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Once again, the TMR becomes unbalanced and the forage-to-concentrate ratio actually consumed is not

what is listed on the ration report.

To avoid these problems, top-dress only the amount To avoid these problems, top-dress only the amount called for on the ration report. Anything else can called for on the ration report. Anything else can

cause acidosis . Also, allow animals enough time after cause acidosis . Also, allow animals enough time after kidding to adjust to the TMR before introducing kidding to adjust to the TMR before introducing

additional top-dress grain.additional top-dress grain.

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5.5. They change batch size incorrectly.They change batch size incorrectly.This mistake usually begins when animals don’t eat This mistake usually begins when animals don’t eat

the amount of feed listed on the ration report. the amount of feed listed on the ration report. The producer decides that grain and protein are the

most important and makes sure the animals get all of the grain and protein called for. He then cuts He then cuts back on forage so the goats clean up the mix. back on forage so the goats clean up the mix.

This is possibly the biggest “no-no” for TMR users.

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The greatest advantage of a balanced TMR is that The greatest advantage of a balanced TMR is that every bite contains the correct amounts of forage and every bite contains the correct amounts of forage and

concentrates. concentrates. If animals aren’t eating the projected amount, never If animals aren’t eating the projected amount, never

cut back on one ingredient. cut back on one ingredient. Keep everything in the same ratio and cut back on the Keep everything in the same ratio and cut back on the

total kg’s of TMR fed. total kg’s of TMR fed. Have your nutritionist reformulate your ration so it is Have your nutritionist reformulate your ration so it is

closer to actual consumption.closer to actual consumption.

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6.6.Mixing errors.Mixing errors.Errors in mixing cause the bunk ration to be different

from the formulated ration. A good way to stay on top of the mixing errors is to take samples of the TMR routinely as it leaves the

mixer. The analysis of these samples should be close to what The analysis of these samples should be close to what

is listed on the ration report. is listed on the ration report. Taking samples toward the beginning, middle and end

of the TMR load-out helps you check on separation during mixing and unloading.

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Avoid mixing errors by occasionally verifying the accuracy of your scale by weighing an object of known

weight such as a feedbag.

Also, resist the temptation to take a shortcut and not Also, resist the temptation to take a shortcut and not use the scale on some ingredients.use the scale on some ingredients.

Thank you!Thank you!

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The Challenges of Feeding Your Goat Herd, J.D. Kleinschmidt

Devices & Hardware

feeding silage

feeding system

goat herd

good quality silage

environment of high

cons corn silage

goats lwait

refused feed