grazing question

[andrews29]

thinking about putting pairs out on a field that is about 85% grass 15% alfalfa. Calves range from 3 month to 3 weeks old. cows have been being feed hay and cube, do to it being dry here our normal summer ground has no grass to speak of. i put in a bloat block 2 days ago. whats everybodys thoughts ? i sure dont want to bloat any of them !

 

[High Plains]

Doesn't seem like you're going to encounter any bloat problem with 15% alfalfa. Just don't put the cows in there real hungry if you think the grass is poor. I'd suggest giving them a fill of grass hay before turning in if it settles your nerves. If the 85% grass is at least a good stand then they'll be fine. Just my experience.

 

[Shortgrass]

Sounds like you are doing everything you can to avoid problems. I'd leave the block out, and turn them in full. Then watch.

 

[Faster horses]

Unless the alfalfa is a lot greener than the grass, cows prefer grass
for some reason. Do what the others said, put them in full and keep
out the bloat block along with good mineral and you should
be fine.