Precautions and Feeding Management Tips for Calf Rearing

Calves are newborn cattle, and at this stage their constitution is very weak, so raising them requires great care. Many farmers have raised calves themselves, but small problems always arise during the rearing process, affecting the calves' growth. So today, follow us as we take a look at what we need to pay attention to when raising calves.

1. Feeding Management

Feeding management is very important. It not only affects the normal growth of calves, but also has a great impact on their later growth and development. Feeding management is mainly divided into three stages. The first stage is the colostrum period. We need to help the calf drink colostrum after birth, and secondly, to prevent the cow from stepping on or crushing the calf when it stands up or lies down, at this stage we usually keep watch nearby. The second stage is the starter period, when the calf gradually begins to pick at food beside the cow. At this time we should feed it some feed formulated for calves, and for those that are extremely dependent on milk, we must force them to eat. The last stage is the weaning period. Weaning should be carried out at least after one month. What we need to note is that at this stage, feeding must be done at least seven or eight times a day, and the quality of the feed must be ensured, so that malnutrition after weaning does not occur.

2. Sanitary Environment

Because calves have a relatively weak constitution, the sanitary environment in the farm must be cleaned thoroughly, and the farm as well as the feed troughs and water troughs should be disinfected at irregular intervals, and the air in the farm should be kept circulating, but care should also be taken that the temperature is suitable. If the sanitation in the farm is not handled well, a large amount of bacteria will appear, which will make the calves' constitution even weaker and cause many diseases.

3. Daily Management

After each feeding, remember to wipe the calf's mouth and nose clean. Secondly, whether during the suckling period or after weaning, they must be provided with sufficient drinking water, which is beneficial to the calf's metabolism. Finally, during the calf's growing period, do not restrict its movement; instead, a certain amount of exercise every day is necessary to promote digestion and strengthen the constitution.

4. Pest and Disease Control

The most common diseases during the calf's growing period are colds, licking mange, and indigestion. For these relatively common diseases, we usually achieve a preventive effect by strengthening routine daily management and feeding management. If the disease occurs, cold granules, vaccines, and digestive tablets can be used respectively for prevention and treatment. The most common pest is parasites, so in normal times, brushing the calf's body can be used to prevent them, and when necessary, special deworming medication can be fed for treatment.