Farming Simulator 25: A Guide to Cattle Care, Feeding & Reproduction

Key Takeaways:

1. Master cow care for steady income and efficient milk production.
2. Learn how to create Total Mixed Ration (TMR) for optimal cow health and productivity.
3. Efficiently source and mix cow feed to streamline farm operations.

Farming Simulator 25 isn’t just about tending to crops expanding your farm through animal husbandry, especially cows, is an integral part of maximizing profits and running a successful operation. With cows, you’re not only investing in milk production but also taking on reproduction management, feeding routines, and barn upkeep. Here’s an in-depth guide to help you manage your cows efficiently, feed them properly, and optimize their productivity.

Why Choose Cows in Farming Simulator 25?

Cows stand out as the most popular livestock choice in Farming Simulator 25 for several reasons. First, there’s a steady demand for milk, which means a constant revenue stream. Second, cows reproduce at a manageable rate, giving players the opportunity to grow their herds and expand income over time. However, it’s not all straightforward: managing cows, especially if you’re new to the series, requires understanding the equipment, feeding techniques, and overall care requirements.

The Basics of Feeding Cows in Farming Simulator 25

1. Choosing the Right Feed

Cows in Farming Simulator 25 can eat different types of food, but the effectiveness of each type varies. While building your cow barn, you have the option to create a meadow field right behind the barn’s pasture area. By doing so, your cows can graze automatically, which simplifies feeding but this is only a base-tier option. Meadows provide only 40% effectiveness, limiting your cows’ growth and productivity potential.

To fully optimize milk production and keep your cows in peak condition, you’ll want to feed them Total Mixed Ration (TMR), which has an effectiveness rating of 100%. Unlike basic feed, TMR cannot simply be purchased; players need to craft it from several key ingredients.

2. Crafting Total Mixed Ration (TMR)

Crafting TMR requires combining Hay and Silage. For this process, players must invest in a Forage Mixer, as Hay and Silage cannot be mixed by hand. Here’s a breakdown of the TMR crafting essentials:

• Forage Mixer: Essential for blending the ingredients, this machine is available in several models at the shop.
• Bale Spike: Used to transport Hay and Silage bales. You’ll find this tool under the Front Loader Tools section in the store.

Once you have these tools, you’re ready to start mixing TMR. If you’d like to speed up production, you can purchase Hay and Silage directly under the Bales category in the Animals section of the shop, though farming your own ingredients can be more cost-effective over time.

3. Mixing Ingredients for Optimal TMR

Once you have Hay and Silage on hand, attach your Bale Spike to a loader, pick up a bale of each ingredient, and drop them into the Forage Mixer. Stand next to the mixer to monitor the ingredient levels; you’ll notice bars indicating the quantities of Hay and Silage. Both need to be in the green zone to produce TMR efficiently.

Optional Additions for Enhanced Effectiveness:

• Straw: Adds bulk but requires careful ratio adjustments.
• Mineral Feed: Adds nutritional value but can alter the ratio, so be cautious.

Maintaining the right balance is key too much of one ingredient can throw off the ratio, requiring adjustments to achieve the desired TMR output. If the ratios are accurate, you’ll see a TMR icon appear. At this point, you’re ready to feed the cows.

4. Feeding Process: Delivering TMR to the Barn

To feed the cows, drive the mixer near the food icon in or outside the cow barn. Switch the mixer to the dumping exit and unload the TMR. You can verify that TMR has been successfully added by checking the barn management screen, which will display the type and quantity of feed available.

While TMR is the ideal feed, it’s also possible to use only Silage or Hay if you’re in a pinch. However, note that they need to be powdered in the mixer to be acceptable as cow feed.

Essentials for Cow Maintenance and Reproduction

Feeding is only one aspect of cow care. To keep your cows healthy, productive, and reproductive, you’ll need to provide additional necessities.

1. Water Requirements

Unlike crops that can survive on rainfall, cows require a consistent water source. Use the Water Tank available in the shop to transport and refill water. Place the water trough near the barn, ensuring that cows always have access to fresh water. Lack of water will affect their health and milk yield, ultimately reducing your profit margins.

2. Reproduction and Herd Expansion

Cows will reproduce automatically once they reach a certain age and health level, which depends on adequate food, water, and overall care. By ensuring proper feed (especially TMR) and hydration, you’ll be able to sustain a growing herd. Expansion not only means more milk production but also allows you to sell additional livestock for profit as your barn reaches its capacity.

Optimizing Income from Milk and Manure

Managing cows not only produces milk but also generates manure, which can be valuable if you’re operating a crop farm. Manure serves as a natural fertilizer, cutting down costs on chemical fertilizers and promoting a sustainable farm ecosystem.

• Milk Production: Your cows will produce milk consistently if they are well-fed and hydrated. Keep an eye on milk levels in the barn management menu, and transport milk to the appropriate collection points to sell or process.
• Manure and Slurry: Collect manure from the barn to use on your fields or sell. Slurry is another byproduct that can be collected for fertilization. Efficient waste management is crucial for cutting costs and maximizing your farm’s sustainability.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I skip crafting TMR and just feed cows Hay or Silage?

Yes, but feeding only Hay or Silage is less effective than TMR. TMR provides 100% effectiveness, boosting milk production and supporting faster herd growth.

2. Do I need to water my cows manually?

Yes, cows require a regular water supply. You’ll need to refill the water trough using a Water Tank from the shop, as it directly impacts their health and milk yield.

3. How can I increase my herd size?

Cows reproduce once they reach optimal health and age. By providing TMR and water consistently, you’ll create the right conditions for reproduction, allowing for natural herd expansion.