It is essential to ensure that the crude fiber in straw is effectively broken down through the action of ammonia over a specific period. The fermentation time for ammoniated feed should be adjusted based on seasonal temperature variations to achieve optimal results.
To assess the quality of ammoniated feed, sensory evaluation is the primary method. High-quality ammoniated feed typically has a brownish-yellow color, emits a musky scent, and contains a strong ammonia odor, with a soft texture. In contrast, immature ammoniated feed may appear similar in color to regular straw, have no distinct smell, and show only a mild ammonia presence without significant textural changes. Over time, older ammoniated feed tends to darken and lose its ammonia potency. If the plastic packaging leaks, the straw can become moldy, turning white, gray, or even black, with clumps and an unpleasant odor. Such feed should never be given to animals.
When feeding, ammoniated feed can be offered freely alongside regular straw, with the amount of ammoniated feed making up about 40% to 60% of the total forage. Before feeding, it's important to take out only the required amount of ammoniated feed and store the rest in a cool, shaded area. On sunny days, drying the feed for 10 to 12 hours is sufficient, while on cloudy days, it should be dried for over 24 hours. This helps reduce the ammonia concentration, making it less irritating to the eyes and nose. However, it should not be left too dry, as this could reduce its nutritional value. After each use, the storage container must be resealed. Ammoniated straw can be stored in a pit for extended periods, but regular inspections are necessary to prevent damage from rodents, trampling, or weather conditions. Any holes in the plastic cover should be promptly sealed with tape.
When using feed supplements with ammoniated feed, it's important to combine it with protein sources like soybean meal, cottonseed cake, or distillers’ grains, as well as vitamin- and mineral-rich feeds. This ensures a balanced metabolism in the animals.
Ammoniated feed is suitable only for adult ruminants. Young calves and lambs should be used with caution, as their rumen microbial systems are not yet fully developed.
Monitor animals closely and adjust feeding practices if needed. If cows or sheep show signs of reduced or stopped rumination due to improper feeding, or exhibit symptoms of ammonia poisoning such as excessive salivation, restlessness, tremors, or unsteady gait, stop feeding immediately and move them to a ventilated, shaded area. To alleviate ammonia poisoning, administer 1 kg of vinegar, 0.5 kg of sugar, and 3 to 5 kg of water.
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