The Use of Cottonseed Meal in the Ration of Pregnant Ewes

No abortions were experienced during three winters in which pregnant ewes were fed a .5 lb. level of cottonseed meal during the gestation period. Very similar results were secured in rations containing .25 and .5 lb. of cottonseed meal with either alfalfa or prairie hay. Prairie hay properly supplemented with cottonseed meal and finely ground limestone gave results very similar to those obtained with alfalfa hay except during one year when prairie hay was quite unpalatable. The minimum level of carotene fed was 38.0 micrograms per pound of body weight and proved adequate for a normal pregnancy.