A comparison of high energy and normal diets for young dairy animals

Young dairy animals were grown in these tests on a free-choice, high energy, all-concentrate diet, over long periods of time, without roughage, and to date, without noticeable detrimental effects. There was no evidence of physiological disturbances due to overeating when any of the feeds were offered free choice. It appeared that the feeds must be pelleted to prevent sorting. There was no apparent abnormal behavior or delayed sexual development. All animals have been bred and are currently with calf. Certain portions of this work will be repeated and extended far verification of these preliminary conclusions. This program is on a continuing basis and further trials will also be carried out tom determine influences on lactation performance.