Jersey Cattle Good
Jersey cattle are a dairy breed that can be raised for both milk and meat production. These cattle are genetically adapted to produce milk and are well suited for many different climates. In fact, they are also a common animal found in many countries around the world. They are known for their high butterfat content.
Because these animals have been genetically bred to produce milk, they have less muscle mass than other beef breeds. However, they can be raised in the same type of environment as other beef breeds. As a result, Jersey steers are usually smaller than other breeds, making them more susceptible to disease. Keeping their weight under control is important, because they require a lot of energy to reach their maximum genetic potential. The key is to provide a diet that is balanced, and that will give the steer enough fuel to keep up with its body’s requirements.
The best ration for a dry jersey cattle is one that is heavy on grass hay and light on grain. It is also important to feed high fermentable carbohydrates to help with rumen development. If you are planning to raise Jersey cows for meat, you will need to feed them a high-grain ration, since they don’t perform well on a high-forage diet.
Are Jersey Cattle Good to Eat?
Jerseys were primarily bred for milk production. This is evident in their small, curved horns and big udders. Their undersides are light brown or dark brown. A solid-colored Jersey ranges from 880 to 1,100 pounds in size, while a broken-color cow is lighter in color.
Generally, the feeding program for Jerseys should begin in the first couple hours after birth, with colostrum. Colostrum should be given at a rate of three to four quarts per day, or ten percent of the calf’s body weight. Feeding colostrum early on can help develop the passive immunity needed to help prevent diseases in the calf, and can also contribute to higher growth rates.
For the first two weeks, Jersey calves should receive a daily diet of 1.5 to 2 pounds of milk. They should be fed twice a day during the second and third weeks, with the last feeding occurring on the sixth or seventh week. In cold weather, it may be necessary to feed the calf more frequently.
After a calf is weaned, the heifer will be fed a diet of hay, grass, and minerals. Depending on the season, it can be a good idea to give the heifer free choice water to keep her hydrated. Also, electrolytes can help to protect her from dehydration.
For a younger heifer, the average daily gain should be 1.2 pounds. By eight weeks of age, they should be able to gain two pounds per day. When the heifer is finished, they should be able to maintain their body weight at 900 to 1,000 pounds.
Unlike other dairy breeds, the Jersey is not prone to acidosis. However, it can still be an issue, especially when the ration is too high in energy. The risk of acidosis is reduced by having a uniform eating pattern. Having more fiber in the rations may also help.