There is a 4-hour window to optimize antibody absorption and immunity in newborn calves, according to Brian Vander Lay, veterinary epidemiologist. Once a calf gets its first meal the gut wall begins to close and they lose the capacity to absorb essential antibodies in colostrum necessary for immunity. He offers five strategies to ensure healthy calves. Share this on social media and in newsletters.
Source: BEEF, February 2020. Link. To optimize antibody absorption and immunity in newborn calves:
- Give a full dose
- Choose a colostrum replacer over a colostrum supplement
- Bottle feeding is preferred
- Manage BCS to be 5 or 6
- Pay special attention to pulled newborn calves
Never give probiotics before colostrum” – Brian Vander Lay
Also see: Colostrum is more than just immunoglobulins, Hoard’s Dairyman, February 17, 2020. Link.
INSIGHTS: Veterinary teams and sales representatives, please NOTE the guidance on full dosing.
- Supplemental colostrum milked from the dam is preferred.
- If using a purchased colostrum replacer, a full dose should provide the equivalent of 100 grams to 120 grams of antibody to the calf. This is typically two packages.