Maximising Starter Feed Consumption In Calves

Introducing your calves to starter feed is a pivotal step in their early development. To ensure they thrive and grow, it's crucial to pay attention to several key factors. 

1. Fresh feed 

Ensure fresh feed is provided regularly and from an early age. Ensure calves are clearing before offering ad libitum and preventing feed from going mouldy or stale. Smaller more regular feeds can stimulate appetite and encourage consistent intake. As intakes increase it is important not to let calves run out.

2. Palatability

Ensure palatability, make sure the starter feed is palatable to the calves. Starter feeds with high quality ingredients with a balanced formulation can help increase palatability.

3. Weaning process

When calves are fed high volumes of milk it is important to introduce a step-down weaning method. Calves will consume more starter as the milk volumes are lower as an attempt to compensate for nutrients then not supplied by the liquid feed. It is important to note that milk/milk replacer is the most important nutrient source in the first weeks of life therefore should be fed to calves’ appetite. Gradual reduction of volume of milk (over 3 weeks) triggers a surge for solid feed intake, increasing the total starter feed and energy intake before and after weaning. 

4. Water 

Provide clean water, access to clean, fresh water is crucial for optimal feed intake. Ensure calves have access to water from birth as this will help aid in the digestion of starter feed and rumen development. 

5. Forage 

Offering a forage source, separately from the starter feed, has a positive impact on the rumen environment and development. It is recommended to offer free access to chopped straw (2.5 - 3cm) as this acts as a ‘toothpick’ creating a scratch effect and stop keratin build-up on the rumen papillae.

Optimising starter feed intake in calves requires careful attention to various factors such as fresh feed, taste, weaning process, and water availability. By ensuring that calves have access to fresh feed regularly, promoting palatability of the starter feed, implementing a gradual weaning process, and providing clean water from birth, we can support their growth and development effectively.

Consistency in these practices is essential to stimulate starter feed consumption in order to maintain growth rates pre and post weaning setting a strong foundation as the calf transitions.