Calf and heifer rearing
Growing strong from day one
Main target in this stage
Robust heifer which can calve for many cycles
The main goals in calf rearing are keeping calves healthy with colostrum, calf milk replacers, vaccinations and a clean environment. Proper feeding helps them grow quickly, while ensuring they develop a strong immune system. Optimizing their body condition helps boost milk production, ensuring a smooth transition to lactation for healthy, reproductive cows.
Can I influence milk production during calf rearing?
Early calf rearing significantly impacts future milk production. Studies show that each additional 100g of daily weight gain before weaning can increase first-lactation milk yield by 250 liters. Achieving this requires high-quality colostrum, strict hygiene and proper nutrition.
What are the optimal calf and heifer feeds?
Optimal calf rearing begins with colostrum for immunity, followed by milk replacers for growth. Calf muesli promotes early intake, while starter feed supplies protein and starch for rumen development. Growing feed ensures heifers receive balanced protein and energy for rumen health.
Ensure smooth development towards productive dairy heifers
Good management, alongside proper nutrition, is essential for a high fertility rate and a smooth transition towards optimal milk production. Minimize stress by providing a clean, comfortable environment, socialize and handle calves gently. Carefully monitor and manage body condition and avoid sudden changes in diet or housing. For the best results you treat your heifers carefully up to their first calving towards 22-24 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Key questions in the calf and heifer stage
Newborn calves are vulnerable towards infections, so providing colostrum and transition milk from day one is essential. Studies show that calves receiving these vital nutrients during the first three days are stronger and can cope better with illness with faster growth.
Management practices giving colostrum
Talk to our calf experts
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Powering progress
Dairy cow lifecycle
Dairy cows go through key life stages: the dry period, the rearing period and the lactation. Proper nutrition and management during each stage are crucial for optimal health, milk production and reproduction. A well-managed dry period aids recovery, balanced calf nutrition supports growth and effective care during lactation maximizes milk yield. Good nutrition and management at every stage lead to a productive, healthy herd and improved farm profitability.
Explore the interactive wheel to find customized insights and recommended actions tailored to each life stage, supporting your unique farming needs and goals for each of these stages.