If you do not test colostrum or if you are feeding poorer quality colostrum, it is important to feed more colostrum sooner to ensure adequate IgG absorption. Because there is no placental transfer of immunoglobulins in cattle, it is critical that the calf receive adequate IgGs from colostrum to establish immunity. Remember, that feeding colostrum is a race against time. The quicker you can get colostrum in the calf the better your chance of beating the bacteria and other pathogens. If the calf ingests these organisms before she gets adequate IgG from colostrum the likelihood that she will get sick or die increases dramatically.
Colostrum is critical to the calf's ability to fight off disease.
A healthy calf gains weight faster, reaches breeding weight and condition faster, and has the greatest potential to reach her genetic milking potential. Keeping Calves Clean, Dry, and Comfortable K eeping the calf's environment clean, dry, and comfortable significantly reduces the stress placed on the calf. Calves should be housed in hutches which protect them from the rain and snow in the winter months and the sun and heat during the summer months. Maintaining a clean environment decreases the number of bacteria and other pathogens which the calf's immune system must overcome. Energy used fighting muddy conditions, excessively hot conditions, or high numbers of bacteria is energy which is no longer available for growth and maturing.