Calves of today are tomorrow’s dairy cows. Every dairy farmer is aware of this.
However, do you as a dairy farmer know what this means exactly in daily practice?
Research shows importance of calf rearing
Recent studies show the importance of making the most of youth growth. Optimal youth growth creates strong and healthy calves. Calves will benefit their entire lives from calf rearing with good growth and without health problems. Calves with optimal growth in their first 3 months of life will become healthier dairy cows with a higher milk production and better sustainability.
In order to pay attention to optimal calf rearing, Sloten B.V. launches a new total approach: Sprayfo Growth Champion.
High concentration milk powder
In the first 4 – 5 weeks growth of the calf will be determined by milk. Late research and experiences from practice demonstrate that a start with a high concentration has a positive effect on growth and health. Advised concentration is at least 150 grams per litre. German professors such as Kunz and Kaske made this known through recent publications in trade journals.
Quick youth growth will provide optimal rumen development
It is well-known that calves will grow faster when they receive more milk powder. However, it is less known that calves that had more milk powder also will have a higher intake of concentrates. Quick growth stimulates the intake of concentrates, which is significant for a good rumen development. Quick growth through optimal milk supply goes hand in hand with an optimal rumen development. By a phased and slow reduction of milk supply and by not weaning too early, the growth pace will stay at the right level.
Sprayfo makes the difference visible
Sprayfo is the calf rearing specialist. Through research on our trial farm and other trials in practice we were able to demonstrate the exceptional growth of calves with Sprayfo.
Normally daily growth is around 700 grams in the first 12 weeks.
With the Sprayfo approach this could increase up to 900 grams a day. On the face of it a small difference; but in actual fact clearly visible! In general a calf weighs 100 kg after 12 weeks. Sprayfo calves weigh 115 to 120 kg – and that shows!
To measure is to know
Growth of rearing calves can be measured in different ways. Using a scale (most reliable), measuring shoulder height or using a measuring tape to determine heart girth. Guidelines for both valuations are stated in a schedule.
Research shows importance of calf rearing
High concentration milk powder
It is well-known that calves will grow faster when they receive more milk powder. However, it is less known that calves that had more milk powder also will have a higher intake of concentrates. Quick growth stimulates the intake of concentrates, which is significant for a good rumen development. Quick growth through optimal milk supply goes hand in hand with an optimal rumen development. By a phased and slow reduction of milk supply and by not weaning too early, the growth pace will stay at the right level. 
Sprayfo is the calf rearing specialist. Through research on our trial farm and other trials in practice we were able to demonstrate the exceptional growth of calves with Sprayfo.