Three questions to keep heifer nutrition in check

Elliot Block for Progressive Dairyman

Replacement heifers play a vital role in maintaining herd size and replacing older cows. Proper calf nutrition prior to weaning can lead to increased daily gain, reduced age at first calving and increased production during first lactation. To keep heifer nutrition in check, there are three basic questions you should ask to either your heifer raiser or on-farm heifer manager.

1. Are newborn calves reaching an effective passive immunity?

A strong colostrum management program is one of the most essential components of rearing a healthy calf. Passive immunity in calves occurs through early oral consumption of immunoglobulin (Ig) in colostrum or colostrum substitutes. Low Ig absorption levels are directly related to increased treatments and calf mortality. Newborn calves that have delayed colostrum consumption risk their ability to absorb suitable Ig levels.

The less Ig a calf absorbs, the greater effect it has on long-term calf performance, including reduced average daily gain, delayed time to first calving and decreased milk and fat production during first lactation. Newborn calves should receive colostrum within 8 to 12 hours after birth for maximum absorption.

2. Are heifers receiving all essential nutrients?

Early absorption of proper nutrients is important to calf growth, health and immunity. Research has shown that calves need supplemental fatty acids to meet performance potential. Many calf starters contain low amounts of linolenic acid and higher amounts of linoleic acid, essential fatty acids (EFAs) that calves cannot produce. The study shows that both average daily gain and feed efficiency increase as the amount of supplemental EFAs increases in calf diets.

3. Do your heifer diets contain enough energy?

Heifer calves have high energy requirements, so it’s critical they receive the proper amount of metabolizable energy (ME). Calves should receive a minimum of 8 to 10 pounds of milk or milk replacer per day, with higher levels needed for more intense group-feeding situations.

Recent on-farm research demonstrates that calves will grow faster as milk intake increases above maintenance and protein needs. Incorporating an intensive feeding program can improve animal health, age at first calving and first-lactation milk production. PD

References omitted but are available upon request at editor@progressivedairy.com