Proper nutrition for livestock is the cornerstone of every working farm. That’s why owners and employees need to pay close attention to the quality of the animal feed they are providing to their horses or cattle. If the animals consume it after it has already spoiled, it could result in serious illness—and subsequent financial losses for your business. The guide below looks closer at the damage bad feed can cause and how to avoid it.

How to Identify Expired Animal Feed

Our sense of smell provides us with the first warning that something has spoiled. Before even stepping into the barn, you may get a whiff of rancid air. Hay tends to have a musty, moldy smell when it is no longer good to eat. Other items may give off an overly sweet, fruity odor as they go bad.

Color and consistency are also hallmarks of good feed, so give it a visual inspection. Move the feed around, searching for patches that look different. In hay or grain, you may notice worrisome clumping, while in food pellets and seeds, crumbly dustiness is often problematic. Finally, make sure there are no signs of rodent infestation near the food—such as gnawed materials or droppings.

How to Prevent Animal Feed From Spoiling

Ensuring the longest possible life and quality of animal feed comes down to a few simple steps—starting with proper storage. Place a waterproof tarp underneath the feed so it doesn’t draw moisture from the floor, which can lead to mold growth. For the same reason, the feed should be allowed to breathe, as trapping it in an airtight container can also produce dampness. If you find any moisture or detect any foul odors, it’s best to discard the feed.

Finally, when it comes to dealing with pests, chemicals and poisons must be used with extreme caution. Instead, consider having a few barn cats to control the rodent population. 

Need to restock your supply of animal feed? Turn to the trusted local suppliers at Carhart Feed & Seed Co. For over 25 years, their expertise has supported local farmers in the Dove Creek, CO, area with everything they need—from top-quality seeds to veterinarian equipment, batteries, and even tires. Call them at (970) 677-2233 with questions about their inventory. You can also check them out on Facebook for more tips of the trade.