Calf & Heifer Health
While IgGs might be the star of the show in colostrum, supplementing with IgYs could aid in lining the gut, adding an extra layer of defense through the first weeks of a calf’s life.
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Supporting a dairy calf’s microbiome for a strong immune system
Early life management affects a calf’s health and productivity, not only short-term but throughout its entire life. To help ensure success, farms should focus on nutrition, microbiome, immunity and gut integrity.
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Getting calves to drink water is a yearlong pursuit
A calf’s body is 70% water, and water intake is closely tied to rumen development and starter intake. To encourage intake, producers should provide clean water frequently. Providing warm water or water with electrolytes in a bottle may also encourage additional intake.
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Protect calves with a solid BRD identification plan
Learning how to properly identify symptoms of BRD, performing routine checks during feeding, keeping detailed records, and monitoring the type and duration of antibiotic therapy can aid in the protection of youngstock from BRD.
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Colostrum for calves with diarrhea? Exploring the potential of colostrum as an additional therapy
Calves with diarrhea could benefit from colostrum supplementation. Recent research shows that eight feedings over four days could reduce the disease to 2.75 days.
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Colostrum can help control BRD: Build immunity early in replacement heifers
Controlling BRD is essential for raising healthy calves, but to do so producers and employees need to do a few key things: Know the signs of BRD, provide good-quality colostrum and vaccinate against it.
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Mycotoxins: Not just a dairy cow issue
While some might think mycotoxins don’t affect calves, they can be present in calf starter. Concentrations must stay below 300 parts per billion in calf feed; otherwise, it is toxic.
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Record calf and heifer info to boost success
Recording calf and heifer health events, growth, genetics and reasons for culling and utilizing this data can improve long-term calf and heifer management.
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Preparing heifers to travel
Raising replacement heifers off-site is popular; however, it comes with various challenges. Producers should consider this and set animals up for success by providing things like electrolytes, good nutrition, supplements and taking trip length and weather into account.
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3 standard calf care practices your calf grower wishes you knew and implemented
Adequate colostrum; a dry, clean environment; and effective navel care are essential to setting dairy-beef calves up for success. Supplying healthy calves can help farms stay competitive in today’s market.
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