By Blake Jackson
Providing newborn dairy calves with high-quality colostrum promptly after birth is essential for developing immunity, reducing disease risks and supporting healthy growth, according to Emily Fread, Extension Educator at Penn State Extension.
Calves are born with limited immune protection and depend on immunoglobulins (IgGs) in colostrum to establish passive immunity.
Fread noted that feeding 4 liters of high-quality colostrum, with a Brix value above 22%, within the first four hours of life can help calves achieve successful passive transfer of immunity.
A study published in the Journal of Dairy Science examined approximately 3,400 calves from one dairy farm to evaluate the relationship between passive immunity, health and average daily gain (ADG).
Calves received 4 liters of colostrum through an esophageal tube feeder within 30 minutes of birth, followed by another 2 liters six to 12 hours later. Blood samples were collected between two and seven days after birth to assess immunity levels.
Researchers classified passive transfer as poor, fair, good, or excellent. Results showed that 4.8% of calves had poor passive transfer, 29.5% had fair transfer, 28.3% had good transfer, and 37.4% achieved excellent transfer.
Despite receiving high-quality colostrum, some calves did not absorb enough antibodies. Calves with poor passive transfer were more likely to develop pneumonia and diarrhea and had higher mortality rates than those with excellent transfer.
Calves with good or excellent immunity also recorded higher ADG than those with poor immunity.
The findings suggest that colostrum quality alone does not determine immunity. Factors such as the dam's lactation number, the employee administering colostrum and calving difficulty can influence antibody absorption.
Calves born to cows in their third or later lactation had lower passive transfer, while difficult births requiring assistance were also associated with reduced immunity.
Fread emphasized the importance of consistent management practices, employee training, and efforts to reduce dystocia.
Breeding decisions should consider calving ease, while heifers should reach appropriate size and maturity before giving birth.
Colostrum hygiene is equally important. Collection containers and feeding equipment must be properly sanitized to limit bacterial contamination. Colostrum that is not fed immediately should be refrigerated to prevent bacterial growth, which can compromise calf health.
Establishing clear feeding protocols, monitoring employee compliance, and maintaining good herd nutrition can improve calf outcomes. By prioritizing timely colostrum feeding, sanitation and calving management, dairy producers can help calves develop stronger immunity and build a foundation for productive lives in the herd.
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Categories: Pennsylvania, Livestock, Dairy Cattle