Calves fed frequently (every 4 hours), with milk intakes of at least 8 litres/day are quieter.Alongside the advantage of better average daily gains (ADG), calf vocalization is significantly diminished when calves are fed at several intervals throughout the day. Better ADG is achieved by total dry matter intakes greater than conventional methods (averaging 10% of body weight per day).

The 2001 study done by Thomas et. al. (App. Anim. Sci., 74: 165-173) concluded that significant vocalization differences existed between groups of calves depending on how often, and how much they were fed. This study highlights the satiation of calves with increased feeding rates. If a producer notices noisy calves, feeding schedules should be one of the first places he/she looks.

Today we have a wide range of milk replacer formulations to select from to ensure we meet the needs of the young calf. Feeding programs have been developed to maximize growth and development of the young calf prior to weaning. This, followed by enhanced grain and forage feeding programs, can ultimately maximize growth and development.

What are the pay-offs for sound calf nutrition that starts at DAY 1?

• maximizing lean muscle tissue deposition
• encouraging earlier breeding size and optimal weight
• earlier lactation and
• more milk over the lifetime of the animal