Effect of Lint on Whole Cottonseed Passage and Digestibility and Diet Choice on Intake of Whole Cottonseed by Holstein Cows

Effects of rolling whole linted cottonseed and whole acid-delinted cottonseed on whole seed passage and digestibility were determined using 24 lactating Holstein cows. Whole seed passage averaged .74% in all cows fed whole linted seed during the standardization period and .45% in 6 cows fed whole linted seed during a comparison period, contrasted to 11.3% in 6 cows fed acid-delinted seed. Digestibility of ether extract was less in the 6 cows fed whole acid-delinted cottonseed. No advantage was for rolling whole linted cottonseed before feeding, but rolling was beneficial for whole acid-delinted cottonseed. Individual consumption of whole linted cottonseed by 18 nonpregnant, dry Holstein cows varied from .04 to 5.05 kg/day when two-choice options were given for cottonseed versus chopped coastal bermudagrass hay or corn silage, or a complete ration of 75% corn silage and 25% concentrate. No indication of gossypol toxicity was seen, but the large variation in each choice situation suggests it is desirable to blend cottonseed with other ingredients to ensure more uniform consumption.