It is well-documented that consumption of colostrum, the first mammary gland secretion from the dairy dam, is essential for low calf morbidity and mortality. It’s not quite that simple, says Maurice Eastridge, The Ohio State University. This process, called S I P, involves the:
- Supply of colostrum,
- Immunoglobulin (Ig) concentration, and
- Pathogens of low presence in colostrum.
Instead of using the liquid volume of colostrum as the standard, the amount of Ig consumed is more important than the actual concentration of Ig in the colostrum. Intake of IgG is of primary importance, but there are other Ig and potential immune stimulators in colostrum, shared Eastridge.
Source: American Dairymen, March 2018, page 32.
An adequate supply of colostrum of high Ig concentration and with low pathogen load is critical for the calf to get off to a good start. The management factors that specifically cause low yield and quality of colostrum are unclear. Proper measurement of colostrum Ig concentration is essential to determine if alternate sources or colostrum supplements are needed. Whichever is used to provide the Ig to the calf, a low bacteria count is essential for adequate absorption of the Ig to occur.
INSIGHTS: Estridge’s article provides a fresh look at managing colostrum intake around the Ig concentration compared to. the liquid volume. Use this article to discuss Ig measurement and colostrum supplementation. Dairymen will thank you for taking the time to learn and share this information.