During the first two weeks of life, you need to make sure that the calf gets enough antibodies from the colostrum. Additionally, you need to provide enough energy to keep your calf's body temperature at the right level.

When they arrive, the dairy calves have no antibodies to the microbes and thus have no immunity to calf disease. The calf can easily get the antibodies it needs by ingesting good-quality colostrum as soon as possible after birth.

There are many websites like Feedworks which provide complete information about calf health.

calf health

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There are only two other reasons why colostrum is important. Unlike other mammals, calves are mostly born with minimal energy.

Therefore, calves want to add energy as soon as possible after birth. Colostrum contains twice the amount of energy and solids compared to regular milk.

Second, it contains components – hormones, growth factors, insulin, etc. – which trigger intestinal development and helps digest solid milk in the first few days of its existence.

How do you measure colostrum quality?

To assess the quality of colostrum, farmers should use the BRIX refractometer. The BRIX refractometer is a simple, economical, and precise tool for determining the solids content of milk and thus the quality of colostrum. 

Choose the best colostrum

Colostrum is important for calves. It contains antibodies and many different substances which are very important to get you started. A fast and hygienic supply of the best quality colostrum is essential.