Week 7
Dairy: Calves |
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Introduction to Dairy: Calves
Text Transcript
Follow along with the audio...
Overview
- 75% of losses during 1st 3 months
- High quality diet a must
- Prone to health problems
- Labor intensive
- Quick feedback on feeding program
The First 3 Months
- Period of maximum risk and cost
- Weight Goals
|
Holstein |
Jersey |
Birth Wt, lb. |
85-90 |
50-55 |
3 Mo Wt, lb. |
200-250 |
130-160 |
ADG, lb. |
1.2-1.8 |
0.8-1.2 |
- Low cost = Low mortality, Early weaning, Economical feeds
Components for Success
- Dry cow nutrition
- Calving environment
- Colostrum management
- Feeding the pre-weaned calf
- Transition management
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