[Feira426]

I'm sure there must be something about this in another thread, but searching "hay analysis" didn't bring up anything that looked promising.

How does one go about getting their hay tested? Do the minerals in hay vary enough that hay should be tested regularly, even if it comes from the same area?

Trying to figure out all the crazy mineral balance stuff! Thanks to anyone who can help me.

 

[ksalvagno]

You have to get a core sample. There is a tool to use for that.

 

[SalteyLove]

The cost isn't worth it. Just supplement your goats with the minerals. You'll never get a precise answer. Even bagged feeds and minerals willl have some variation, and even if you could know exactly how much they are consuming, what good would it do you? There would be so many answers about how much they should be getting. It's better to be very knowledgeable and aware of symptoms and know that most herd across the USA require supplementation.

 

[SalteyLove]

DairyOne offers hay analysis out of NY

 

[Feira426]

The cost isn't worth it. Just supplement your goats with the minerals. You'll never get a precise answer. Even bagged feeds and minerals willl have some variation, and even if you could know exactly how much they are consuming, what good would it do you? There would be so many answers about how much they should be getting. It's better to be very knowledgeable and aware of symptoms and know that most herd across the USA require supplementation.

That makes sense. I'm sure each individual goat has slightly different needs too.

 

[toth boer goats]

I do agree.