Why does predicted dry matter intake bounce around?
Both the maximum and predicted dry matter intake are formula based and include variables such as animal weight, temperature and NEm concentration of the diet. As the diet energy concentration changes, there will be small differences in the predicted dry matter intake value. To see the difference that net energy for maintenance of the diet can have on the prediction of dry matter intake, select and feed either a low energy straw or a high energy alfalfa hay. Note the dry matter difference.
