Pregnant Jersey Feed

[hondadoc]

I have a Jersey heifer that will calve at the end of February about the time she turns 2. I have had her since she was a week old so she is very healthy and spoiled. My question is since she is pregnant will hay be enough for the winter or should I feed some type of feed also. The hay I have is pretty good stuff, its horse quality. just want to make sure she gets all she needs this winter. Thanks

[billinwv]

If you stick with hay only, feed very good minerals (dairy) free choice. I also give mine Icelandic Kelp. My hay is brome and timothy. My cows get a 12% non gmo grain . You don't want your heifer to calve with udder edema so if you grain do it carefully. You can increase grain after she calves to match production and keep her in good flesh. I know a lot of folks use hay and pasture only. My cows just don't hold weight when milking without some grain.

[Tango]

I used hay only for my Jerseys while pregnant. Just keep an eye on her condition. You are fortunate to be so close to freshening with one you raised. I am raising one now and looking at two years ahead. Best wishes with her.