All calves should have access to cow’s colostrum within 12 hours of birth. Colostrum aids with the development of calf immunity, passing the first faeces (meconium), reduces diarrhoea and is a superior source of nutrients. After 12 hours antibody absorption in the calf markedly deteriorates, reducing the benefit of colostrum intake.
Calves should be fed at least 2 litres of colostrum in the first 4 hours of life and at least 1.7 litres of colostrum per feed for 4 feeds over the next 36 - 48 hours. If cow colostrum is not available, artificial colostrum should be sourced. If there is any time delay in sourcing a milk replacer, the following recipe can be given as a substitute 'first milk':
Recipe for Artificial Colostrum / First Milk
(Please note this recipe does not contain antibodies and so will not provide the calf with the vital immune components contained in natural / artificial colostrum)
-
3 litres cow’s milk
-
1.5L of water
-
5 eggs (beaten)
-
25ml cod liver oil
-
75g dextrose powder (glucodin)
Once colostrum has been given the calf can then be reared on a commercial milk replacement (readily available from most stock feed agencies). Milk should be fed warmed at 39-40 degrees celsius for the first 3 weeks of life. Water should also be made readily available at all times.
Volume to Feed (Milk or Milk Replacer)
|
Day 1
|
Colostrum only
|
Target 10% BWT (approx 4L) within 6hrs then another 2-4L 12 hours after birth
|
|
Days 2-3
|
Milk replacer
|
10% BWT daily over 4 feeds (at least 4L total)
|
|
Days 4-6
|
Milk replacer
|
10% BWT daily over 2 feeds (at least 4L total)
|
|
Once daily feeding can be introduced from 10 days of age
|
BWT = calf bodyweight
Tips to Remember:
-
Growth rates in calves should be balanced.
-
Calves should be encouraged to eat dry food as soon as possible. Calf starter pellets can be introduced from 3 days of age. Always provide ad lib access to good quality hay and fresh water.
-
Weaning can be as early as 8 weeks of age, but the calf needs to be weaned on to a supplement of grain unless it has access to very good spring grass / clover pasture.
