Benefits of Feeding Whole Cottonseed
Producers nationwide build their rations around whole cottonseed for many reasons:
More milk & butterfat. In trial after trial, whole cottonseed has been proven to increase both milk production and fat test when adding it to the ration of the high-producing dairy cow.
Concentrated nutrition. Whole cottonseed is recognized as a cost-effective “triple-nutrient.” On a dry matter basis, whole cottonseed offers:
- High protein (23%)
- High energy in the form of fat (20%)
- Crude fiber (25%)
An Energy, Fiber and Protein Source
Compared with other commonly available protein supplements, whole cottonseed is the only feedstuff with added high energy and high fiber. This combination is especially attractive when feeding the high producing, early lactation dairy cow in negative energy balance – a cow in need of both energy and fiber.
The energy content of whole cottonseed also makes it a valuable addition for cows with a reduced appetite, particularly those that have just freshened or are under weather-related stress.
Additional benefits of whole cottonseed:
- Highly digestible. The energy in whole cottonseed is primarily from fat. If fed at a reasonable level, whole cottonseed will not interfere with forage digestion the way starch in corn can.
- Improved body condition. Research also has shown that the fat in whole cottonseed improves body condition, which can lead to better reproductive performance.
- Widely available. Whole cottonseed is available to most dairy producers nationwide. Our whole cottonseed supplier list is a great way to shop around.
Get the Facts on Feeding Whole Cottonseed
Whether you have a small, traditional dairy or a herd of 600+, cottonseed can fit in to your feeding program. Take a cue from these farmers who have fed cottonseed for decades.
Cottonseed is a hard ingredient to replace. It’s a palatable feed and brings fiber, energy and fat to the ration in one package. Learn why cottonseed is so beneficial.
