Day 1
Start the Immune System – Give a sufficient dose of colostrum at the right time to give the calf crucial antibody protection.
Test colostrum quality with a brix refractometer to ensure adequate concentration of antibodies. Use brix 22 and above for the first feeding.
Feed 4 L colostrum for Holsteins and 3 L for Jerseys.
Feed first colostrum within two hours of birth, provide colostrum for second and third feedings.
Harvest clean colostrum – Bacteria in colostrum cause disease and interfere with antibody absorption. Bacteria survive in milk residue and grow rapidly between 4 - 60 °C.
Clean and disinfect all colostrum collection and feeding equipment with soap/detergent, hot water, and disinfectant.
Milk clean, dry teats, make sure cow does not have mastitis or blood in colostrum.
Cool colostrum quickly to <4 °C for storage. Use an ice bath or cold water to reduce temperature before putting in fridge or freezer.
Warm quickly to 39 °C for feeding in 52 - 60 °C water – feed as soon as it is warm, do not let it sit out!
Naval care – bacteria may enter through the naval and cause disease.
Complete coverage of naval area within one hour of birth with an effective disinfectant product.
Milk Feeding
Feed for growth! Feeding calves to their full growth potential results in less disease in calves and better milk production when they are cows.
Feed 6-10 L (14-18% of body weight) per day of whole milk or 26% protein milk replacer for at least 50 days.
Feed at least two times per day, three times is better.
Have fresh, clean water and fresh, palatable starter (22-24% protein) always available by three days of age.
Consistency – changes from feeding to feeding can cause nutritional scours and disease.
Milk replacer mixing – same percent solids every day, thoroughly mixed at correct temperature >47 °C to ensure complete mixing.
Quantity fed – same each day (unless changing due to age or weaning)
Temperature at feeding 38 – 40 °C
Time of day – same time daily at even intervals is best (e.g. 12 hours apart for 2X feeding)
Housing
Bedding – clean, dry and deep for warmth in winter. Sand or dirt okay for hot weather.
Ventilation – fresh air! Allow airflow, use bedding and/or calf jackets to keep calves warm.
Hygiene – clean and disinfect housing and calf carts or trailers between calves. Refresh bedding as needed to keep it clean and dry.
The Genetic Connection
To genetically improve calf health and survival rates, select sires with positive Zoetis Calf Wellness Traits™ (CW$™).