Yes, you can hammer mill or grind hay before adding it to a calf starter as a source of chemical fiber; but it will cause dustiness, lower palatability, and does not stimulate cud chewing. I prefer to use oats, soy hulls, or other digestible fiber sources in a calf starter. Offer the hay as long forage within 3 to 4 weeks after weaning when calves are consuming 5-6 lbs of dry feed. Remember, an important goal is to develop rumination and stimulate rumen muscle development.
Mike Hutjens, Extension Dairy Specialist, U of IL - Illini DairyNET
Arlyn Heinrichs, Dairy Extension, Penn State University.
Hugh Chester-Jones, Dairy and Beef Specialist, U of MN
