Milk from different animals varies somewhat in the proportion of the different constituents. All milk contains a high proportion of water, cow's milk averaging about 87 per cent. The milk from different breeds of cattle varies considerably in composition. The milk of individual cows of the same breed also varies in the proportion of the different constituents. This may be partly due to environment, partly to inheritance, and partly to individuality. Milk may vary particularly in fat content from one milking to the next. The percentage of fat increases during the milking period; that is, the first milk obtained is not so rich in fat as the last portions of milk.

The fat varies for different breeds from about 3.5 per cent for Holstein to about 5 per cent for Guernsey and Jersey.

The protein varies from about 3.3 per cent for Holstein to 4.0 per cent for Guernsey and Jersey. It parallels the fat content somewhat, being highest in the breeds having a high fat content and lowest in those having a low fat content.

The lactose does not vary so much with the different breeds as the fat and protein. The lactose content is from about 4.65 to 5 per cent.

The ash varies from about 0.68 to 0.75 for the different breeds.