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Colostrum Management Tips

Colostrum of the right quality and quantity, given to the calf at the right time, is the cornerstone of success for any calf rearing enterprise. It supplies both essential nutrients and antibodies. A new-born calf has no protective antibodies to resist disease challenges and these can only be absorbed via colostrum. Poor health, low growth rates and high mortality are most often seen in calves that have received inadequate colostrum. The following information states the ‘3 Q’s’ or golden rules when feeding colostrum:

Quality

Feed calves with quality colostrum ideally from mature cows. Colostrum quality varies widely from cow to cow. Colostrum from cows in second or later lactations usually contains more antibodies to help protect against disease. These animals have been exposed to a wider range of pathogens and will therefore transfer a wider range of antibodies into their colostrum.

Wherever possible, colostrum from mature cows should be stored and fed to calves born from heifers.  When considering the use of a commercial substitute, ensure that the product has been independently tested and is proven to be successful.

 

 


Quantity

Minimum 3 litres (6 pints) over 2 feeds in first 6 hours.  As a rule of thumb, a calf receiving at least 3 litres of good quality colostrum in the first 6 hours of life will have received sufficient antibodies.  Remember a calf requires approximately 20 minutes of continuous suckling to consume 3 litres of milk from the cow.  Research in the UK indicates that over 30% of calves fail to suckle sufficient colostrum naturally from the cow during the first 6 hours. In the USA 40% of calves fail to suckle enough.

Quickly

Feed colostrum as soon as possible and at latest within 6 hours of birth.  At birth, the calf’s gut is open, which means that it can absorb the large antibody molecules. Over the first 24 hours it closes to these molecules and absorption stops.  It is essential that sufficient colostrum is given to the calf quickly. Ideally, the first feed should be within the first hour.

Feeding colostrum for the first 3 days of life has been shown to encourage rapid gut development and lay a solid foundation for fast healthy growth.


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