What are the problems associated with feeding straw-based rations?
Impaction can occur when the weather turns cold as cattle will try to keep warm by increasing their feed intake. Since straw is not easily digested it does not pass quickly enough through the animal, they become impacted and this may result in the death of the animal. Straw and grain are high in potassium (K), a ration high in K can cause a magnesium deficiency which results in winter tetany, which is similar to grass tetany or milk fever. Limestone or magnesium oxide should be added to the ration to prevent this deficiency.
