Utilization of Cotton Gin Trash by Lactating Dairy Cows

Abstract Cotton gin trash was included at 0, 5, 15, or 25% in rations containing 50% concentrate for lactating dairy cows. The remainder of the roughage in each ration was cubed alfalfa hay. All rations were consumed readily. Mean milk production for all treatments was 28.0 kg/day and was depressed slightly by the two higher percents of cotton gin trash. Milk fat percentage was increased by higher cotton gin trash as compared to 5%. Digestibility of dietary protein was depressed and digestibility of fat increased by dietary inclusion of cotton gin trash. Changes of body weight and digestibility of acid detergent fiber and gross energy were not affected by diet.