A Successful Dairy Calf Rearing Program

Great nutrition is an integral part of a great immune system. Thus, nutritionally preparing calves to get a stressful experience like weaning is as essential as a fantastic vaccination program. 

Zinc and copper are nutritional supplements for calf health that play a significant role in immune function. Therefore, before weaning, calves must have access to some good trace mineral that provides these nutrients. 

calf health

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As mentioned before, feed that permits great rumen growth is important before weaning because the calf will transition into a milk-free diet. When possible, calves must be fed with a diet of top quality, long-stem hay, or permitted to graze grass.

Introducing calves to nutritional supplements containing coccidiostats (monensin, lasalocid, and decoquinate) before weaning will help calves transition into bunk feeding and protect against clinical coccidiosis. Processing, either before or at the time of weaning can decrease disease risk and boost the growth performance of calves.

As is true with ancient vaccination, a routine ought to be made to coincide with the qualities of the manufacturer's herd in addition to fortifying calf worth from the post-weaning period of growth.

Antiparasitic treatment is very important in calves because they tend to be more prone to parasites compared to older cattle. Internal parasite burdens not just reduce feeding efficacy, but have also been connected with diminished immune function. Re-implanting in preconditioning/weaning could be valuable and must be considered.

Providing good nutrition, a clean environment, and suitable vaccination protocols before and the following calving helps to ensure a healthy, flourishing calf harvest.