Rearing topics

Healthy calves are fit and alert, they drink their milk well, have a body temperature between 38 and 39 degrees and a shiny coat. Calves have a neutral temperature zone between 15 and 25 degrees. Within this zone, a calf does not have to use its energy to keep warm or cool down. This is very important because a calf has few fat reserves at birth and does not yet have its own defense mechanism. The colostrum is therefore essential to give the calf a good start. In addition, management plays an important role in the development of the calf to protect it against diarrhea and respiratory health problems.

Diarrhea

Diarrhea is a condition that regularly occurs in many calves. In infectious diarrhoea, the pathogens take the upper hand. In calves that suffer from nutritional diarrhoea, everything is aimed at creating rest in the gastrointestinal tract. Often there is something you can do about it.

Respirotary health problems

Healthy lungs ensure maximum growth and development of the calf and better performance as a dairy cow. In the event of respiratory problems, it is also advisable to adjust the calf’s diet.

Colostrum

Colostrum contains high concentrations of antibodies (IgG) that protect the calf. In addition, the colostrum contains energy, proteins, minerals, vitamins and substances that have a positive influence on the development of the small intestine.

Hygiene

As a dairy farmer, you take measures to ensure a good start before the calf is born. Hygiene around the youngest calves comes in four steps: the calving shed, the colostrum, the single pen and the farmer.

Housing

Clean and comfortable calf sheds help create a nurturing environment for calves and reduce the risk of disease and encourage high growth rates.

Milk Phase

Immediately after birth, the calf is given high-quality colostrum as soon as possible. After 2 days of colostrum, the calf is given calf milk powder for 9 to 10 weeks. It is important to initiate rumen development as soon as possible.

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