What potential issue arises when fine, leafy, high-quality alfalfa is included in a Total Mixed Ration (TMR) for dairy or feedlot cattle?
Answer
Sorting leads to preferential selection of high-nutrient particles by the cattle
When a TMR contains finer, leafier alfalfa particles, cattle may sort through and preferentially select these highly palatable pieces first, resulting in inconsistent nutrient intake across the herd.
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