The days are getting longer, the grass is getting greener, and that can only mean one thing for dairy farmers: calving season is on the horizon! It’s a busy but rewarding time of year, and being prepared is key to ensuring the health and well-being of your precious calves. Here are some top tips to set you up for success:
Feeding Foundations:
- Colostrum is king: Within the first few hours of life, calves need a good dose of colostrum, rich in antibodies to jumpstart their immune system. Ensure colostrum is high quality and fed at the correct temperature.
- Milk or Milk Replacer: Calves thrive on milk, either from their mothers or a high-quality milk replace. Check out the Sharpes Stockfeed Calf Feeding Guide for more information.
- Early Start on Solids: Introduce a good quality calf starter feed like Sharpes EarlyWean Calf Feed pellets as early as four days old. This helps develop the rumen, the essential part of their digestive system for processing roughage later in life. Sharpes Stockfeeds offers a range of options to suit your needs, including solutions for twice-a-day or once-a-day feeding programs.
Housing Essentials:
- Cleanliness is key: Provide clean, well-ventilated housing with dry bedding to minimize the risk of disease.
- Climate Control for Calf Comfort: Provide warmth and shelter for calves separated from their mothers with plenty of dry hay in pens, not bare dirt, mud or concrete
- Fresh Water: Always provide access to clean, fresh water.
Extra Attention:
- Vaccinations: Consult your veterinarian about a vaccination program to protect your calves from common diseases.
- Monitoring: Regularly check on your calves to ensure they are healthy and feeding well. Early intervention is crucial for any health concerns.
By following these tips and partnering with a trusted supplier like Sharpes Stockfeed for your calf feed needs, you can set your calves up for a healthy and productive life. Remember, a successful calving season starts well before the first calf arrives. With a little planning and preparation, you can ensure a smooth and rewarding experience for you and your calves.
