Colostrum – the first and most important food for calves

“Adequate colostrum restoration ensures better health of the calf and higher productivity of the future cow.” – reminds our calf rearing expert Tomasz Kaliszewski.

How to determine the quality of colostrum?

We always test colostrum and determine the amount of antibodies it contains. A result above 22% indicates good quality colostrum, which we give to the calf, and we can freeze the surplus in a colostrum bank for a black hour.

How much colostrum should a body receive?

It is necessary to give 10% of the calf’s body weight, or about 4l – in two portions of two liters at an interval of 2 hours, due to the capacity of the digestive tract, if the calf does not want to drink from the teat do not be afraid to use a probe.

When to give colostrum?

As soon as possible – The assimilation of antibodies decreases in the first 6 hours by about 40%, and after 24 hours it disappears completely, so let’s not miss the allotted time.

A very important point!

70% of calves drinking colostrum on their own from the udder do not get enough antibodies, so even if the calf suckled its mother on its own, give it colostrum additionally.

Have questions for our expert, write!

Ensure a healthy start for your calves!