How Much Dry Matter Does Your Livestock Need Per Day?
Accurate DM intake calculations are the foundation of cost-effective winter feeding. A 650 kg beef cow needs 16–20 kg DM daily — but converting that to a fresh silage weight depends entirely on your forage quality. This calculator does the conversion instantly.
The Formulas
DM required (kg) = live weight × intake %
Fresh silage (kg) = DM required ÷ silage DM %
Quick Reference — DM Intake by Category
Beef (maint.)
2.0–2.5%
Beef (growing)
2.5–3.0%
Dairy (lactating)
3.0–4.0%
Dry cows / heifers
1.8–2.2%
Example Calculations
- 650 kg dairy cow at 3.5% DM = 22.75 kg DM/day → 75.8 kg fresh pit silage (30% DM)
- 600 kg beef steer at 2.5% DM = 15 kg DM/day → 37.5 kg fresh pit silage (40% DM)
- Same steer on big bales at 45% DM = 15 kg DM/day → 33.3 kg fresh bale weight
Frequently Asked Questions
- What's the difference between DM and fresh weight?
- DM is the nutrient-rich dry portion after water is removed. Fresh weight is what you physically feed — e.g. 30 kg fresh silage at 30% DM = 9 kg DM.
- How do I measure my silage DM?
- Lab analysis is most accurate, but on-farm near-infrared meters are useful. DM varies from ~20% (wet early-cut pit) to ~50% (dry big bales).
- Should I adjust intake % for dairy vs beef?
- Yes — dairy cows in mid-lactation need 3–4% DM intake, beef cattle 2–3%. The calculator works for any liveweight and intake %.
- Can I use this calculator for sheep?
- Yes — enter average bodyweight in kg and use ~2% intake for ewes. The formula is the same for all ruminants.