Hay Bale Calculator
Daily per Animal
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Total Hay
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Bales Needed
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How Many Hay Bales Do You Need?
A 1200 lb cow at 2.5% intake needs 30 lbs/day. Over 120 days = 3,600 lbs = 72 small bales (50 lbs each).
Waste varies by method: round bales on ground 20-35%, in ring feeders 5-15%, small squares in feeders 3-5%.
Bale weights vary: small squares 40-60 lbs, large rounds 800-1500 lbs. Weigh representative bales.
Frequently Asked Questions
Bales per cow for winter?
1200 lb cow for 120 days: about 3,600 lbs = 72 small bales or 3 large rounds, plus waste.
Reduce hay waste?
Use feeders, feed smaller amounts more often, store under cover, use hay nets for horses.
Round bale weight?
Small: 500-800 lbs. Large 5x5: 800-1200 lbs. Large 5x6: 1000-1500 lbs.
How long does a round bale last?
For one 1200 lb cow, a 1000 lb bale lasts about 25-30 days with 15% waste.