TMR (Total Mixed Ration) has broken on the dairy cow feeding scene like a mini-hurricane in the last five to ten years.  It has been called an answer to all feeding problems

Such an innovation must have many reasons for its success.  One reason is some cows eat more of one forage than the other and it is impossible to balance a ration for any cow in the herd.  In a TMR, all forages and grains are mixed together and in many herds, it is the first time the total herd has had a chance to eat a balanced ration.  TMR's eliminate poor dairy cows stealing feed from good cows because all feed is the same.

With a TMR, many of the newer methods of balancing rations can be implemented more accurately such as balancing available carbohydrates and soluble protein to attain maximum rumen microbe production.  If fed correctly, a TMR enables the nutritionist to formulate a ration on paper which actually gets into the cow in the balanced form intended.

While the TMR system lends itself to efficient feeding of cows, it also encourages less observation of the cows on an individual basis if fed outside in large groups.  Therefore, a manager must change his habits for observing his cows especially in checking for heats.

The TMR also allows for the use of desirable but less palatable feeds to be added to the ration and consumed more readily.  For maximum intake, the cows should be fed at least three times a day so fresh feed is available for a good share of the day.  Bunks should be cleaned between feedings.

The environment is important for best results.  The bunks should be covered and out of the wind so cows can eat in the shade in the summer and out of the wind in the winter.  If the cows are housed in an enclosed building, adequate fresh air movement is essential, in the loafing area as well as around the bunk.

A TMR ration has no magic element in it that makes all herds perform well.  It must be well managed.  Some situations where a TMR may not work well are:

1. Poor quality forages
2. Hot, humid environment
3. Broken or uncalibrated scales on the mix box
4. Incorrect loading sequence of ingredients
5. Not feeding often enough to keep fresh
6. Crowded bunks
7. Incorrect ration balancing and/or not enough trace mineral and vitamin fortification
8. Poor mixing due to worn out equipment or incorrect mixing time

Certain facts can make using a TMR an unwise management decision for many dairymen.  TMR equipment is costly and may not improve on a balanced ration fed by other methods.  A well managed, forage controlled ration can be formulated for and implemented by a good dairy herdsman in many 40 - 75 cow herds.

While a TMR is not for everyone, if managed properly it is an excellent way to feed cows.  So, ask yourself before you invest...will it be a gold mine or a mine field?

Dr. Gorden Hess, Ph.D.
Director of Nutritional Services