Brazil Agro Market
Practical steps to deliver clean, high-quality colostrum on time
Newborn calves rely on colostrum for antibodies. A prompt, well-managed first feed helps build passive immunity and lowers the risks of early disease and mortality.
Gut absorption of immunoglobulins is highest just after birth and declines quickly. Aim to feed a full, high-quality meal within 1–2 hours; assist calves that will not nurse.
Use a calibrated Brix refractometer to estimate colostrum quality. A reading of 22% or higher generally signals adequate quality, around 50 g/L IgG or more.
Wear clean gloves, strip teats and discard foremilk, then collect into sanitized containers. Cool promptly and label each batch with cow ID, date and Brix reading.
Nursing can be natural but intake varies. Bottle feeding lets you control volume and temperature; use clean nipples, monitor suckling, and tube-feed calves too weak to suck.
At 24–48 hours, assess passive transfer with serum total protein or serum Brix. Record feed time, volume, colostrum Brix and cow ID, then review calf health outcomes.
Do not rely on low-IgG colostrum as a calf’s sole source. Use frozen high-quality reserves or a commercial replacer, and record cases to investigate recurring causes.
Testing, frozen reserves and staff training can reduce illness and veterinary costs while supporting growth. Track treatments, mortality and average daily gain to assess returns.
Build a consistent routine around feeding within two hours, Brix readings of at least 22%, hygienic storage and serum checks at 24–48 hours. Train staff and review results.
Aim to provide at least 10–12% of birthweight in the first feed, adjusting for breed and calf size. If a calf is weak or will not suckle, use an esophageal feeder.
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