Tag: Calf health

According to studies, white muscle disease (WMD) is a well-documented nutritional disorder in livestock and other animals, most often caused by a dietary deficiency of selenium and/or vitamin E. This condition leads to the degeneration of skeletal and cardiac muscles, which is especially detrimental to young, fast-growing animals.

Dairy science has shown that a calf's health is directly linked to the quality and timing of its first meal. This crucial first milk, known as bovine colostrum, is collected from fresh cows immediately after calving using specific, sterile milking and handling procedures on dairy farms.

Within the first few hours after calving, a cow's colostrum is at its highest concentration of immunoglobulins, which are vital antibodies for a newborn calf's immune system. This nutrient-rich substance is essential for calf health, and knowing how is colostrum harvested from cows properly is a critical part of modern dairy management. The process must be performed quickly and hygienically to maximize quality and prevent contamination.

According to a 2024 Newsweek report, the colostrum market has seen significant growth, with projections suggesting continued expansion in the coming years. This rise in popularity forces a crucial question: is cow colostrum ethical? This article examines the perspectives surrounding its production and consumption.

According to the USDA, failure of passive transfer in dairy calves can lead to a higher risk of disease and death in the first two months of life. Colostrum replacement is the process of feeding a commercial product to a newborn, most commonly a calf, to provide essential antibodies when maternal colostrum is insufficient or unavailable.

A newborn calf needs at least 100 grams of immunoglobulin G (IgG) to achieve passive transfer of immunity, and receiving adequate colostrum is the first step. Understanding what is the difference between colostrum replacement and supplement is crucial for ensuring this vital nutritional start when the dam's colostrum is unavailable or of poor quality.

According to extensive research and manufacturer statements, the feed additive Bovaer is completely metabolized within a cow's digestive system and does not pass into the milk supply. This means that colostrum, or 'first milk,' is not affected by the additive, as it is naturally produced by cows and fed to calves to provide essential immunity and nutrients.

According to studies, calves deprived of colostrum are up to 50 times more likely to die in the first three weeks of life. Understanding which nutrient is most critical for calf growth and development at each life stage is fundamental for survival and long-term performance.