Follow the five Cs of calf rearing

Farmers can review the behaviour of youngstock in their environment using the five Cs of calf rearing - colostrum, calories, comfort, cleanliness, and consistency - to establish where improvements can be made to maximise their health and performance.

Colostrum is the first and most important contribution to a calf’s health. Calves are not born with acquired immunity and their natural immunity from exposure to the environment doesn’t kick in until three to four weeks of age.

Calves rely on the immunoglobulins (IgGs) from their mother’s colostrum for passive immunity. They have a requirement of 200g IgG in the first day of life. It is vital colostrum is tested with a refractometer or colostrometer to determine the quality (IgG content). Feeding 10 per cent of the calf's bodyweight in colostrum within the first six hours from birth is important since the epithelial cells lining the gut start to mature reducing permeability and therefore the ability to absorb IgGs.

If a calf is not fed a sufficient quantity and quality in the early stages of life this may result in slower growth rates and increased risk of developing disease – and therefore higher treatment and labour cost.

When it comes to calories, it is important to use a quality, highly digestible milk replacer as appropriate levels of milk solids are key. The thermos neutral zone of a calf is typically between 10C to 20C. In colder weather (below 10C) milk replacer should be increased by 100g/calf/day to replenish energy being used by the calf to stay warm.

Calves can spend up to 17 to 19 hours a day lying down. It is essential that their environment is kept comfortable, calm, quiet and stress free and that there is adequate space, air space and ventilation.

Cleanliness is the obvious factor! Clear hygiene protocols must be in place as harmful bacteria can cross the gut lining which cannot differentiate between bacteria(muck) or IgGs and so will absorb it all. Make sure calf pens are thoroughly cleaned out, buckets and utensils are washed in between feeding and that fresh water, milk replacer and starter pellets are replaced daily.

The final C is consistency. It is important that daily routines are constant. This includes colostrum feeding, daily management and calving protocol.

Successful calf rearing is based on a virtuous circle of good health, quality nutrition and strong growth. Your local NWF sales specialist can provide advice on the five Cs of calf rearing supported by the comprehensive range of milk powders and feeds.

Angus Little, NWF Agriculture technical sales specialist.