Understanding the basic concepts of growth helps improve calf and heifer management. Early postnatal growth is the most efficient time to develop skeletal growth, muscle growth, deposit protein and attain the highest feed efficiency. Mammary development can be enhanced by liquid (milk) feed intake prior to weaning (Brown et al, 2002).

Calf raisers are advised to assess and adapt their feeding practices to ensure adequate growth while maximizing economic benefits.

Winter-feeding in cold climatic conditions requires additional attention to ensure… Continue reading →