Transitioning to Solid Feed
The weaning process can stress calves, particularly if they are not consuming sufficient solid feed beforehand. Ensure calves are comfortably eating at least 1.5kg of concentrate feed daily for three consecutive days before reducing milk feeding and eating 2kg before removing milk completely. This ensures their rumen is developed enough to digest solid feeds effectively.
For best results, provide a high-quality calf starter ration, ideally with 18-21% crude protein, to support muscle and skeletal development. Gradually increase concentrate feed intake post-weaning while monitoring weight gain and feed conversion rates.
Ad Lib Feeding: Benefits and Considerations
Ad lib feeding of concentrates offers the potential for calves to maximise their growth rates by allowing unrestricted intake of high-quality feed. However, managing roughage alongside ad lib feeding is critical to prevent issues such as acidosis.
Straw is the preferred roughage for ad lib-fed calves because it encourages rumination and promotes healthy rumen development. Unlike hay or silage, straw is low in fermentable carbohydrates, reducing the risk of excessive acidity in the rumen. It also avoids the overconsumption of energy-dense forage, ensuring calves maintain a balanced intake of roughage and concentrate.
Why Not Hay or Silage?
Hay and silage, though commonly available, are less suited for calves in this stage:
Hay: While palatable, hay has a higher energy density than straw and can lead to overfeeding when offered ad lib alongside concentrate. This can reduce concentrate intake, slowing growth rates.
Silage: Silage is more challenging for young calves to digest due to its higher moisture content and variability in fermentation quality. It can also introduce an increased risk of rumen upset and spoilage issues, particularly in smaller herds.
By contrast, chopped straw, offered in a separate feeder to prevent soiling, ensures a consistent and safe roughage source. Aim for straw lengths of 3-5cm to encourage chewing without the risk of impaction.
Environment and Monitoring
Maintain a clean, dry, and well- ventilated housing environment with sufficient space per calf to encourage feeding and minimise stress. Consistent monitoring of growth rates is essential; target daily live weight gains of at least 0.8-1kg during the post-weaning period. Use weigh bands or scales to track progress and adjust feed intake as needed.
Provide constant access to clean water, as dehydration can significantly impact feed intake and overall performance. Additionally, ensure calves are vaccinated and dewormed appropriately to avoid setbacks caused by disease or parasites.
Building a Strong Foundation
Post-weaning is a critical phase in calf rearing where attention to feeding practices and rumen health will pay dividends in the long term. By adopting ad lib concentrate feeding supported by straw as the sole roughage, you can maximise growth rates while laying the groundwork for healthy, high- performing adult cattle.