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Feeding colostrum
The Four Fs apply everywhere: fast, frequently, fresh and formula.
Colostrum schedule:
- unlimited quantities at the first feeding
- total quantity on day 1: 4 – 6 litres
- day 2: 3 x 1.5 litres
- day 3: 2 x 1.5 litres ( + 1 to 1.5 litres of lukewarm water)
There are different methods of feeding colostrum:
Weaning bucket
- give the first 1.5 – 2 litres of colostrum within 30 minutes of birth using a bottle or weaning bucket
- immediately thereafter, make colostrum available in unlimited quantities via the weaning bucket
- refresh colostrum twice a day; feed the calf with colostrum that is cooled down to ambient temperature to prevent over feeding.
- colostrum intake differs from calf to calf and can reach 6 – 8 litres a day
- if a calf drinks a lot on one day, intake may be reduced the next day
- clean weaning bucket daily
- the weaning bucket should stand 70 cm high
In the first few days especially, the calf’s suckling action has a positive effect on milk digestion, activation of the oesophageal reflex and enzyme production through the generation of extra saliva.
Bucket
- day 1: feed 4 – 6 litres of colostrum at cow body temperature; see colostrum feeding schedule
- days 2 & 3: feed 2 x 1.5 litres ( + 1 to 1.5 litres lukewarm water)
Directly from the cow
- this method is not ideal, because it demands a great deal of attention
- there is hardly any control over intake; many calves drink very little or nothing at all.
- there Is a possibility that infectious diseases (different kinds of diarrhoea) will be passed on
Use of an oesophageal tube
- weak calves have the greatest need for antibodies and energy. Using a oesophageal tube could be a solution for newborn calves that refuse to drink.
Ensure no more than 2.5 litres is fed each time.
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