306 – Ensuring optimal colostrum transfer to newborn dairy calves (Research paper – Patel – 2014)

306 Research paper – Patel – 2014 – Ensuring optimal colostrum transfer to newborn dairy calves

In Significant Impact Groups: Other
Species targeted: Dairy; Beef;
Age: Young;
Summary:
This article reviews best practice recommendations for healthy calves via optimal colostrum feeding. Colostrum must be collected hygienically and fed promptly (<1h) or stored using refrigeration/potassium sorbate as preservative/freezing and/or pasteurisation. All equipment must be scrupulously cleaned. A first feed of 3-4L colostrum (approximately 10% body weight) should be fed within 2h of birth and no later than 6h of birth. This should contain >50g/L immunoglobulin (Ig). Adequate intake cannot be assumed when calves suckle their dam. Pooling of colostrum between cows increases the risk of disease transfer. Feeding with a nipple bottle promotes oesophageal groove closure but if calves fail to suck then colostrum should be fed via oesophageal tube. Calves not receiving adequate colostrum (<10g/L of IgG or <50g/L total protein on bloods) have a reduced ability to fight disease. Mortality rates and disease incidence should be monitored to detect problems early and prevent future issues.

Where to find the original material: https://www.farmantibiotics.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Ensuring-optimal-colostrum-transfer-to-newborn-dairy-calves.pdf;
Country: UK