BIRTH – WEEK 1
ANIMAL NUTRITION
Colostrum is vital to calf wellbeing as it provides both a source high in energy as well as essential immunoglobulins. After the first 24 hours, cow's transition milk should be fed for 2 - 5 days to fulfil the calf's energy demands and provide further immune support locally in the calf's digestive system.
Good quality colostrum is essential to ensure an easier life for the calf as well as the farmer. Just follow the 1-2-3 rule:
4
1
1st milk the cow produces after calving
2
Feed within 2 hours after birth
3
Feed at least 3 litres
GAIN – HEIFER REARING PROGRAMME
Colostrum is crucial At birth, the calf's immune system is unprepared for the challenges it is likely to face. Colostrum is crucial in providing the calf not only with vital nutrients, but also with the necessary immunoglobulins to protect the calf against common infections during the first months of life.
