Optimum calf immunity with colostrum milk
The first hours following the birth of the calf are crucial for ensuring a successful rearing. Immediately after birth, the newborn calf needs colostrum milk (also known as ‘colostrum’) to build up immune resistance. Colostrum milk contains immunoglobulins or antibodies that pass through the intestinal wall and into the bloodstream, providing immune defence against outside pathogens.
Providing a timely and adequate intake of quality colostrum milk is essential for building a newborn calf’s immune resistance. This is because, during the first few weeks of life, the calf’s own immune system will not be developed enough to combat intestinal or lung infections. By providing colostrum milk, the calf will acquire passive immunity, protecting the calf during their first three weeks of life. Only from then will the calf develop its own active immunity.
The greater the quality of colostrum milk, the faster the calf will ingest sufficient antibodies. Therefore, be sure to always measure the quality using a colostrum meter to achieve the target of 200-300 g IgG (immunoglobulins) within the first 24 hours.
