Calves should be given colostrum immediately after birth. Tube feeding is recommended for calves unable to suck a bottle. Since most cows produce more colostrum than their calves need, freeze the rest to save for the occasional calves that need higher quality colostrum than their dams can produce. Two-quart containers are convenient, and they should be labeled with the date and concentration of collection. Liquid Feeding Extra colostrum and discarded milk from antibiotic-treated cows can be used to feed calves.
Many calves perform well when fed all their milk at one feeding a day.
The label on milk replacer bags will display the information needed to assess ingredients and nutritional value. Replacers should be at least 20 percent protein, not less than 12 percent fat, and less than 1 percent fiber. Mixing should be done according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Calf performance information collected on your farm will assist you in evaluating the milk replacer used. Dry Feeding Offer the calf a special starter feed when you place the calf in a pen.