Preparation tips for successful lambing and weaning:

Lambing date

Knowledge of lambing dates is important to ensure that ewes are managed appropriately to ensure successful lambing. Preparation of buildings and an emergency ‘nursery’ will help with the survival of small, weaker lambs and for the optimal growth of lambs from multiple births.

Ewe nutrition

The fittest lambs are born to ewes that have been maintained correctly from pre-mating to lambing. Weight gain usually occurs in the premating phase and is then followed by a constant weight maintenance (condition score 2.5-3) between days 50-90 of pregnancy.

Ewes that are in prime condition at mating maximize egg production, show increased conception rate and egg survival.

It is not desirable to have ewes on a high level of nutrition post mating as the higher rate of metabolism removes progesterone from the blood stream more quickly. Progesterone is essential for embryo survival and development. Sudden changes in diet in the first 3 weeks after mating can also effect embryo survival. Under feeding may increase the likelihood of more single births rather than multiple births.

Inadequate feeding during mid pregnancy results in small birth weight lambs.

Nutrition needs increase significantly in the last 4-6 weeks of pregnancy. It is important to support rapid fetal growth (70% of growth occurs in last 6 weeks) and udder development for colostrum and milk production. If the high demands are not met, pregnancy toxemia/twin lamb disease can result. Body condition score at lambing should be 3-3.5. Ewes that are fat are prone to vaginal prolapse.

These factors should be considered for the next lamb crop alongside light (photoperiod) management.

Ewe management at lambing

Lambing pens with clean, dry bedding (for each ewe) should always be available. Pens should be about 1.5m square with a corner divided off to give the lamb a safe area. Each ewe can expect to spend 1-2 days in this pen.

A ‘normal’ delivery takes about 5 hours from dilation of the cervix (4 hours) and delivery (1 hour). Once the lamb is born, ensure that it starts breathing. Clean mucus away from the nose and mouth.

The lamb should be encouraged to nurse as soon as possible to maximize absorption of Immunoglobulins (Ig’s) from colostrum. Weak lambs may need to be tube fed.

Observe lambs carefully to ensure they are feeding correctly, regularly and do not become chilled. This is especially important for multiple births.

Management of multiple birth and orphan lambs

The greatest proportion of lamb deaths is caused by a combination of chilling (hypothermia) and starvation. It can account for the death of about 30% of lambs born alive and occurs within the first 3 weeks of life.

Lambs with the greatest risk of becoming hypothermic include: small and premature lambs, lambs which are weak and limp at birth, lambs from ewes in poor condition, lambs from very old or very young ewes, lambs born into a cold, wet, windy environment, twins and especially triplets

The newborn lamb’s ability to produce heat is proportional to its bodyweight. Heat loss is influenced by several external factors:

Body surface area: body weight ratio – a small lamb has a larger surface area in proportion to its weight and therefore will chill faster than a larger lamb.

Insulation from the coat – breed differences and dryness of coat

Heat loss (kcalm-1h-1) always decreases when the temperature (°C) increases irregardless of the weather conditions.

This chart shows the effect of wind, environmental temperature and wetness on heat loss in newborn lambs. [From Alexander, G. (1962), Australian Journal of Agricultural Research, 13, 82-99.]

Energy (fat) reserves in lambs are only 3% of BW compared to 10-15% in adults. Lambs require adequate colostrum and brown fat (type of fat born with) to help maintain body heat. A lambs brown fat reserves will be used within 3 days after birth.

Starvation/ Hypothermia Risk
Action

Chilling reduces the suckling drive
Ensure lamb is provided a warm, dry, wind free environment

Select breed or cross suitable for conditions and type of operation.

Low milk intake increases the lamb’s susceptibility to cold
Ensure lamb is suckling and ewe is providing sufficient milk

Insufficient feed/ energy intake reduces ability to generate heat
Ensure lamb is provided with and consumes adequate good quality colostrum

Provide a high quality milk replacer ‘Lamb-Gro’ if lamb is orphaned or not getting sufficient milk from ewe, e.g. multiple birth lambs.

Colostrum
What does it provide the newborn lamb?

• Nutrients (high fat%) to provide heat production and help prevent hypothermia
• Immunoglobulins (Ig’s) to help prevent infection. Some line the gut wall and the rest are absorbed into the bloodstream, as long as provided within the first 24 hours following birth. The most efficient IgG absorption period is in the first few hours after birth.
• Growth factors to promote gut growth and differentiation especially during the first 24-48 hours after birth.

How much does a lamb need?

• 50ml/kg body weight right at birth and every 6 hours for the first 24 hours. E.g. 4kg lamb receives 800ml (31/3 cups)
  The amount should be increased by 20-30% for lambs exposed to undesirable weather, this is equal to one extra feeding.
• Colostrum yield from ewes can be variable and low especially if the ewe has been underfed or is in poor conditions.
• It is ideal to use colostrum from the mother. If not possible, then use pooled ewe colostrum from same flock, then pooled ewe colostrum from another flock (same disease status), then cow colostrum (30% more via one extra feed), then artificial colostrum.

Why is colostrum so important?

The Ig’s in colostrum provide a passive protection of the newborn lamb until its own immune system is functioning. The newborn lamb does not have any antibodies at birth as they do not cross the placenta from the ewe’s bloodstream. Some primary disease causing agents of lambs include Ecolab, Rotavirus and Cryptosporidia. The newborn gut does not have the acidity or ability to help destroy these harmful bacteria. Viral agents can cause severe damage to the small intestine of young ruminants that will adversely affect their future performance.

Vaccinating ewes for diseases at 5 weeks (ewe lambs) and/or 3 weeks (mature ewes) prior to lambing enables antibodies against these specific common diseases to be produced and passed to the lamb via the ewe’s colostrums, (e.g. E.coli, Tetanus, Clostridia gp). Excess colostrum can be collected from high yielding ewes and frozen for up to one year and used at a later date.

Choosing lambs for artificial rearing

Prolific ewes produce more lambs than their milk production can sustain, at adequate growth rates. Extra lambs are best removed entirely from the dam. It is best to remove the lamb most different in size and then gender. Lambs should be grouped according to size and then gender. Lambs should only be moved to a new group once they have achieved a target weight. This ensures that weaker, smaller lambs are provided the extra attention and smaller group size until strong enough to compete.

Methods of feeding milk replacer

There are many techniques for feeding milk replacer to orphan or multiple birth lambs. The choice of system depends on the number of lambs’ to be reared, individual preference, buildings etc.

Lambs should ideally be raised in a room at 15-18oC. High sanitation is critical for all systems. Correct disinfection of mixing and feeding equipment will help prevent the proliferation of bloat and scour causing organisms.

It is important to follow the manufacturer instructions for mixing and also feeding rate according to average size of lamb fed.

Limit feeding (set amount of milk 3-4 times a day): ideal for small numbers of lambs. Milk is fed via a nipple on a bottle or nipple pail (one nipple per lamb). It is labour intensive but can allow a reduced cost of the milk feeding period with an easier transition to solid feed and easier weaning. Milk should be fed at 38-40°C (body temperature).

Free choice feeding (warm or cool (4oC) but not excessively cold): Typical systems include, nipple pail units, teat bars and commercial automatic feeders (e.g. Forster).

Lambs have access to milk at all times and are group fed. The milk supply must not be allowed to run out as lambs will easily over feed with new milk.

Milk fed at 4oC will be consumed in smaller amounts more often. This reduces digestive upsets from overeating. In warm/hot weather, milk can be kept cold by floating a clean plastic (pop) bottle filled with frozen water in the milk replacer. Formalin may also be added to free choice milk (1ml/litre milk replacer solution) to prevent microbe growth. It also tends to restrict gorging due to it’s unpleasant taste. Be careful that lambs do not completely reject the milk.

Each nipple can accommodate 5-6 lambs and must be 40-45cm (16-18ins) above the stall floor. Lambs may require assistance in adapting to nipples for 1-2 days.

Free choice feeding can minimize labour but disease transfer may be higher. Lambs can easily chew nipples which can result in milk replacer loss from the container. Free choice feeding results in higher feed intakes. Which encourage greater gains and therefore allows for an earlier weaning period. Commercial automatic feeders can feed 50-150 lambs per unit and so are ideal for dairy sheep operations or prolific breeds on accelerated systems. After about 10 days, larger groups can be formed and 10-25 lambs can feed off one nipple. Consult machine supplier for advice.

Feeding lambs in cold conditions

Ensure lamb feeding equipment is protected from extreme environmental conditions to prevent large temperature variation and freezing of milk in pipes and container. Provide lambs adequate milk to maintain positive energy balance and growth performance. Cold conditions can be a result of, or combination of, reduced air temperatures, higher humidity, wet bedding etc. When lambs reach negative energy balance, immune status can be easily compromised and the lambs become more susceptible to disease.

Milk sheep

Feeding a quality milk replacer to lambs from milking ewes can increase marketable milk and also may improve total milk lactation production. The regular full draw on the ewe maintains a maximal milk synthesis. If lambs are left on the ewe and do not take a full milking, then milk production declines and will not recover once lamb is removed.

Weaning

Lambs are usually weaned from 21-45 days of age (average 30days) and 12kg bodyweight. Lambs should be consuming a minimum of 120-150g of creep ration per day for more than 2 consecutive days and have consumed a minimum of 8-10kg of milk replacer.

Typical disease pathogens for lambs:

• Watery mouth – infection with E.coli precipitated by chilling, stress and/or lack of colostrum intake. This typically occurs during the first few days of life and up to six weeks of age. Young lambs salivate and become distressed with a distended abdomen. The lambs can also scour which can lead to dehydration and even death. This condition can last in lambs for up to 10 days.
• Scours – inflammation of intestine from infectious disease pathogens such as E.coli, Cryptosporidia, Rotavirus and lamb dysentery (clostridia).
• Pneumonia -dust, ammonia buildup, extreme weather changes (especially in humidity levels), etc. can encourage pneumonia. Pneumonia is often fatal or resulting lung damage will affect future health and productivity.
• Internal Parasites- one of the biggest health problems in grazing lambs.

Checklist:

As soon as lamb is born ensure adequate colostrum intake by suckling, bottle or stomach tube
Identify premature, underweight, starving, cull ewe lambs and ensure adequate milk intake and warmth.
Ensure good sanitation practices; maintaining barns with good ventilation, dry, no drafts, and strict cleaning of lambing premises.
Group lambs according to age and body weight and supply sufficient nipples. (e.g. 5-6 lambs /nipple at start and increase to 10-25 lambs/nipple dependant on machine and space etc)
Monitor lambs closely and regularly for signs of ill health or starvation. Treat as soon as possible.
Early rumen development will be accomplished by supplying a highly palatable and nutritious creep feed as soon as possible. Offer hay and clean, fresh water at all times.

• Grober milk replacers are manufactured to the highest standards.
• Grober research and on farm testing ensures the best nutritional products available for lamb growth and development.
• Grober Lamb-Gro and good management provide a strong foundation for growth and production of lambs.
• Contact Grober Nutrition or your Feed dealer for details and availability of Grober Lamb-Gro and Forster machines.

Grober milk replacers are manufactured to the highest standards.
Grober research and on farm testing ensures the best nutritional products available for lamb growth and development.
Grober Lamb-Gro and good management provide a strong foundation for growth and production of lambs.
Contact Grober Nutrition or your Feed dealer for details and availability of Grober Lamb-Gro and Forster machines.

Why is it important?

1. Reduced fetal growth in pre-lambing period results in lower birth weight lambs:

• Average daily gain tends to be greater in higher birth-weight lambs when provided ad-libitum access to feed- (Greenwood et al, J.Ani Sci 1998)
• Low birth-weight newborns tend to have poor energy utilization and can have more fat than larger lambs.
• Low birth-weight lambs have less resistance to cold, so they are at greater risk of hypothermia (a combination of chilling and starvation)

2. Poor ewe nutrition may result in reduced brown fat reserves in the lamb:

• Brown fat and colostrum help the newborn lamb maintain heat.

3. Poor ewe condition (underfeeding) reduces colostrum and milk production:

• Insufficient quality and quantity of colostrum and milk will put lamb at risk for hypothermia and disease.

4. Poor ewe nutrition can reduce mineral and vitamin levels in the lamb:

Examples of mineral and vitamin deficiency consequences:

• Selenium (Se): Newborn lambs born are susceptible to white muscle disease, ‘stiff lamb disease’, from birth to 3 weeks old. Low Se affects response to hypothermia, as it is a component of the mechanism that releases heat from brown adipose tissue. Dietary Se levels are reflected in colostrum, milk and lamb plasma levels (placental transfer).
• Vitamin E: is unable to cross the placental barrier and so the newborn is reliant on levels from ewe milk, milk replacer or injection. Dietary vitamin E levels are reflected in colostrum and milk but can be variable. Vitamin E and Se have a sparing effect on each other and are important in disease resistance.
• Iodine (I): Results in goiter (enlarged thyroid gland), stillborn lambs with very little wool or lambs have low viability. Iodine freely passes the placental barrier.
• Cobalt (Co): impairs milk production and lambs from these ewes tend to have less vigor, be slower to stand and start suckling.
• Copper (Cu): Lambs from low copper status ewes are more susceptible to ‘swayback’, muscular incoordination, partial paralysis of the hind quarters. Lambs are born weak and may die form inability to nurse. Can show in newborns or can be delayed for weeks or months.
• Manganese (Mn): newborn lambs lack coordination from bone abnormalities
• Vitamin A: (winter feeding with little green forage) – lambs are weak, malformed or dead and have night blindness.

Ewe preparation advice:

• Observe lambing dates. The ewe’s gestation period is from 144 to 151 days, with an average of 147 days.
• Observe ewe body condition. The ideal body condition score, 8 weeks before lambing, is 2.5-3.5 (lowland ewes), 2-3 (hill/upland ewes).
• Ultrasound scanning for number of fetuses, between 50 -90 days of pregnancy, helps group ewes and feed accordingly.
• Analyze forage quality so that a ration can be formulated for optimum performance. Feed good quality forage to maximize food intake.
• Match feed supply to requirements of ewe and number of fetuses from 6 weeks pre-lambing. Feed requirements for energy, protein, minerals and vitamins will depend on forage quality, availability and environmental conditions.
• Feeding a high-energy supplement helps counter reduced rumen capacity and food intake.
• Cold temperatures will increase energy requirements.
• Fetal growth accelerates rapidly during late gestation. Energy required is much higher for the two weeks pre-lambing versus six weeks pre-lambing.
• Have lambing equipment ready, including clean feeding bottles, teats and high quality milk or milk replacer.

The cold weather that comes with Canadian winters means that calf feeding programs need to be adjusted.

Maintenance requirements must be met for growth and development however ensuring strong growth has been linked to improved performance (earlier breeding and increased milk yield). In order to continue with setting a strong trend for growth, extra milk replacer needs to be fed during the winter. Wind, chill and wetness will demand more energy from the calf for maintenance.

Providing extra calories from protein, fat and lactose will ensure these energy needs are met. One school of thought is to provide extra energy through extra fat. Fat, however, must be digested and providing more means that the calf has to expend energy to digest a diet they may not be accustomed to. One of the studies conducted this year at the Grober Young Animal Development Center was to assess how calves performed when fed a regular (R) milk replacer (26/18) versus one with extra calories from fat (HF) (26/30). There was no difference between intakes of the milk replacer such that calves consuming the 26/18 drank on average 7.53 L/day and calves consuming the 26/30 drank on average 7.42 L/day. Grain intake was less throughout the trial for calves on the high fat milk replacer. Grain intake will play a large role in developing the rumen and ensuring the transition at weaning is less stressful.

Figure 1 Body weight differences in calves fed a regular milk replacer versus a high fat milk replacer.

Moreover, feed: gain (the measure of how much feed it takes to gain 1 kg of bodyweight) was less in calves consuming regular milk replacer (1.60 R; 1.71 HF). That means less R milk replacer was needed to gain the same amount of weight as the HF milk replacer. There was no difference in health events between the two groups. Adjusting a calf’s feeding program to compensate for changes in weather should be done gradually and carefully. Providing extra calories from one nutrient alone forces the calf to digest a new type of diet which can be challenging and upsetting to their digestive tract. It is also important to note that increasing a calf’s access to grain for extra calories will not be as efficient as milk replacer during this stage of growth where the digestibility of milk replacer is 97% or greater.

Providing extra calories through a balanced diet that they are already accustomed to drinking, remembering that calories come from protein and lactose as well, enables the calf to derive more energy from their feedstuffs without the upsetting change in feed.

Figure 2 Grain intake for calves on regular milk replacer versus the high fat milk replacer.

Steps to a successful winter feeding program:

1. Extra calories – provide extra calories through a balanced feed, one they are already accustomed.
2. Extra feeding – provide the extra calories in another meal to ensure smooth digestion.
3. Don’t just add grain – milk is much more digestible to a young calf then grain, provide extra calories through milk.

Kathleen Shore

Nutrition and QA Manager

How to Prepare the Ewe for a Successful Lambing

The fittest lambs are born to ewes that have been maintained correctly from pre-mating to lambing.
The ewe’s gestation period is from 144 to 151 days, with an average of 147 days. Weight gain is usual during pre-mating, followed by constant weight (condition score 2.5-3) between days 50-90 of pregnancy.
Nutrition needs increase significantly in the last 4-6 weeks of pregnancy and is important to support rapid fetal growth (70% of growth occurs in last 6 weeks).
Low birth-weight lambs tend to have a lower average daily gain than high birth-weight lambs (Greenwood et al, 1998). Also udder development for colostrum and milk production occurs at this time.
If nutrition is incorrect, Pregnancy Toxemia (Twin Lamb Disease) can result.
The ideal body condition score at lambing is 3-3.5. Ewes that are fat are prone to vaginal prolapse.

Ewe Management at Lambing

Provide lambing pens that are approximately 1.5 m² (1.8 square yards), with a corner divided off to give the lamb a safe area.
Pens must have dry and clean bedding for each ewe. Each ewe can expect to spend 1-2 days in this pen.
A ‘normal’ lambing has 3 stages: dilation of the cervix (approx. 4 hours); expulsion of lamb (up to 1 hour); expulsion of afterbirth (placenta) (2-3 hours after birth).
Ensure that lambs start breathing.
Clean mucus away from the nose and mouth.
Disinfect the lamb’s navel to prevent infection.
Encourage lamb to nurse as soon as possible to maximize absorption of Immunoglobulins from colostrum.
Weak lambs may need to be tube fed.
Observe lambs carefully to ensure they are feeding correctly and regularly and do not become chilled.
This is especially important for multiple births.

Preparation for Lamb Survival

Hypothermia: The greatest proportion of lamb deaths is caused by hypothermia (a combination of chilling and starvation), which can account for the death of about 30% of lambs born alive.
There are two critical periods: the first five hours of life (high heat loss) and 12 to 48 hours (inadequate heat production-starvation).
Lambs rectal temperature should be 39-40oC (102-104ºF); however a hypothermic lamb will have a temperature from 20-35ºC (68-95ºF).
Slowly warm up the lamb and feed colostrum or dextrose solution as soon as possible, consult a Veterinarian.
Lambs at greatest risk from hypothermia include: small and premature lambs, lambs which are weak and/or limp at birth, lambs from ewes in poor condition, lambs from very old or very young ewes, lambs born into a cold, wet, or windy environment (chilling reduces the suckling drive), twins and especially triplets.
Fat (energy) reserves in lambs are only 3% of body weight compared to 10-15% in adults.
Lambs require adequate colostrum and brown fat (a type of fat lambs are born with) to help maintain heat levels.
Brown fat reserves will be used within 3 days after birth.
A weak lamb or a lamb not receiving sufficient milk will be at risk.

Colostrum: Colostrum provides nutrients (high fat %) and immunoglobulins (Ig) which help prevent infection. Colostrum yield from ewes can be variable and low especially if the ewe has been underfed or is in poor condition.
Ideally use own mother colostrum, then pooled ewe colostrum from same flock, then pooled ewe colostrum from another flock (same disease status), then cow colostrum (30% more via one extra feed), then artificial colostrum.

Rearing Lambs Successfully on Milk Replacer

There are many techniques for feeding milk replacer to orphan, mis-mothered or multiple birth lambs.
The choice of system depends on number of lambs to be reared, individual preference, buildings, etc. Meticulous sanitation is critical for all systems.
The correct disinfection of mixing and feeding equipment will help prevent the proliferation of bloat and scour-causing organisms.

Milk Replacer: Only high quality lamb milk replacer should be used that has been formulated to a high fat content more similar to ewe’s milk.
Carefully selected ingredients ensure easy digestibility and solubility, thus increasing the absorption by the newborn lamb.
Optimum vitamin and mineral levels will assist growth and promote health and immune function. Copper should not be added to avoid toxicity problems.
It is important to follow the manufacturer instructions for mixing quantities and temperatures.
Once mixed in suspension, milk can be cooled and stored at refrigerated temperatures for 24 hours before feeding.
Under natural conditions a lamb will suckle the ewe up to 40 times each 24 hours.
Small frequent feedings are more beneficial.
Feed at manufacturers recommended rate according to average size of lamb. Milk consumption increases with the age and size of the lambs.
Typically a bottle fed lamb should consume 10kg (22 lbs) of milk powder and 13-15 kg (29-33 lbs) under free-choice feeding.

Feeding Methods:

Limit feeding: ideal for a small numbers of lambs.
A quantity of milk is fed via a nipple on a bottle or nipple pail (one nipple per lamb) 3-4 times per day.
It is labour intensive but can allow a reduced cost of the milk feeding period with an easier transition to solid feed and easier weaning.
Milk should be fed at 38-40C (100-104ºF), body temperature.

Free Choice Feeding: Typical systems include nipple pail units, teat bars and commercial automatic feeders.
Lambs have access to milk at all times and are group fed.
The milk supply must not be allowed to run out as lambs will easily over feed with new milk.
Milk should be fed warm or cool 4oC (39ºF) but not excessively cold. Typically, when milk is fed at 4oC (39ºF), it will be consumed in smaller amounts but more often.
This reduces digestive upsets from overeating.
In warm/hot weather, milk can be kept cold by floating a clean plastic (pop) bottle filled with frozen water in the milk replacer.
Each nipple can accommodate 5-6 lambs and must be 40-45cm (16-18ins) above the stall floor.
Lambs may require assistance in adapting to nipples for 1-2 days.
Free choice feeding can minimize labour but increase the possibility of disease transfer. Lambs can easily chew nipples which can result in milk replacer loss from the container.
Free choice feeding, results in a higher intake that encourages greater gains and so earlier weaning potential.

Lamb Pens: Lambs should be housed in a well-ventilated, draft-free shelter at temperatures of no less than 10 oC (50ºF).
To improve livability and performance, lambs should ideally be raised in a room at 15-18oC. Lambs bedded on straw with solid floors require 0.55m2 (0.66 square yards) of floor space per lamb.
Once established in a pen, lambs should not be moved and mixed with other lambs. It is best to feed lambs of the same age together.
Teat bar systems with 4 teats can provide for a pen of 20 lambs.
Commercial automatic feeders can feed 50-120 lambs per unit and so are ideal for dairy sheep operations or prolific breeds on accelerated systems.
After about 10 days, larger groups can be formed and 10-25 lambs can feed off one nipple.
Consult machine supplier for advice.

Feeding Lambs in Cold Conditions: Ensure lamb feeding equipment is protected from extreme environmental conditions to prevent large temperature variation and freezing of milk in pipes and containers.
Provide lambs with adequate milk to maintain a positive energy balance and growth performance.
Cold conditions can be a result of reduced air temperatures, higher humidity, wet bedding etc., or a combination of various factors.
When lambs reach negative energy balance, immune status can be easily compromised and the lambs become susceptible to disease.

Milk Sheep: It can increase marketable milk and may also improve total milk lactation production, by feeding a quality milk replacer to lambs from milking ewes.

Weaning: Lambs are usually weaned from 21-45 days of age (average 30 days) and 12 kg bodyweight.
Lambs should be consuming a minimum of 120-150 g (40-50 ounces) of creep ration per day for more than 2 consecutive days and have consumed a minimum of 10 kg of milk replacer.
Grober milk replacers are manufactured to the highest standards.
Grober research and on farm testing ensures the best nutritional products available for lamb growth and development.

Grober Lamb-Gro and good management provide a strong foundation for growth and production of lambs.

Contact Grober Nutrition or your Feed dealer for details and availability of Grober Lamb-Gro and Forster machines.

The basis of the calf growth model

The calf’s digestive system is immature and requires milk ingredients as the primary source of nutrition. The first two months of a calf’s life are the greatest opportunity to optimize early and future growth. Overwhelming evidence now proves there is a positive relationship between optimal (accelerated) feeding programs and first lactation milk output (2,3,5). VanAmburgh’s research team (Cornell University) were able to determine that for every 1lb of average daily gain prior to weaning, heifers produced approximately 1,000lbs more milk throughout first lactation (6). To put this in economic terms; every extra dollar spend/calf on Grober Milk Replacer will yield a $6.00 increase in milk revenue from that animal in the first lactation alone (ROI=600%). There are few investments that have this big of an impact on your bottom line.

While early nutrition is very important, over-conditioning (particularly between 3-15 months) can have detrimental effects on mammary gland development and thus future milk production. The balance of nutrients provided in the milk phase is critical (Figure 1). Providing excess calories primarily through fat can lead to fat deposition. Dietary protein enables skeletal and muscular development while enhancing other cellular functions including the immune system. Feeding for higher gains in the milk phase (< 3 months; ≥ 900 g/d) may prevent heifers from over-conditioning, provided the correct protein level is included in your milk replacer. Furthermore, gains > 840g/day (between 12 and 65 days of age) have yielded a higher proportion of cows finishing 1^st lactation compared to calves gaining ≤ 741g/day (1).

Figure 1 Calf partitioning of fat and protein in the body

based on the level of crude protein in the milk replacer (4).

Grober Young Animal Development Centre Experience

The Grober Young Animal Development Centre in Woodstock, Ontario, examined the outcome of feeding 6 litres/day vs 9 L/d of a higher protein milk replacer (Grober Excel 26% protein, 18% fat). Milk replacer was mixed at a rate of 150g/L. Calves fed 9 litres/day had significantly greater gains from week 2 to week 6 (Figure 2, p>0.05).

These higher body weights were attained even though calves drinking 6 L/day consumed more calf starter. During the weaning phase (week 6-8) grain intakes in the higher milk group (9L/d) increased rapidly; calves fed 6 L/d continued to consume more grain. However, this increased grain intake did not result in greater body weight gains. Calves in the 9L/d group continued to outperform post weaning (Figure 2).

Figure 2 BW comparison between calves fed Grober Excel milk replacer at* 6L/day and 9L/day.

Actual Total Feed Cost to the Producer

When applying a tool developed by the University of Wisconsin, considerable cost benefit can be shown when feeding an optimal program.

http://www.uwex.edu/ces/dairymgt/tools/index.html

*Milk replacer costs for the conventional and optimal programs are based on Grober Excel and calf starter 22%, May 2010.

Table 1 The cost benefits per calf of an optimal feeding program, using typical figures.

Table 1 highlights that an optimal milk feeding schedule reduces calving age by 1.2 months. This requires fewer replacement heifers for the same herd turnover. According to Dr. Corbett, (Corbett, OABP/OABA conf. April 2010)(7), this means 5 less heifers to feed annually for a 100 cow dairy. Assuming a feed cost of $1800 per heifer, this translates into another $9000 in savings.

Optimal feeding Right From the Start makes for healthier, stronger animals, with improved long term productivity and improves your bottom line.

References

1. Bach, A. 2010. Associations between several aspects of heifer development and dairy cow longevity. (abst ADSA Denver)
2. Ballard, C. H. Wolford, T. Sato, K. Uchida, M. Suekawa, Y. Yabuuchi, and K. Kobayashi. 2005. The effect of feeding three milk replacer regimens preweaning on first lactation performance of Holstein cattle. J. Dairy Sci. 88:22(abst).
3. Bar-Peled, U., B. Robinson, E. Maltz, H. Tagari, Y. Folman, I. Bruckental, H. Voet, H. Gacitua, and A.R. Lehrer. 1997. Increased weight gain and effects on production parameters of Holstein heifers that were allowed to suckle. J. Dairy Sci. 80:2523-2528.
4. Bartlett, K. S. 2001. Interactions of protein and energy supply from milk replacers on growth and body composition of dairy calves. M.S. Thesis, University of Illinois, Urbana.
5. Foldager, J. and C.C. Krohn. 1994. Heifer calves reared on very high or normal levels of whole milk from birth to 6-8 weeks of age and their subsequent milk production. Proc. Soc. Nutr. Physiol.,3.
6. Van Amburgh, M. 2007. Early Life Management and Long-Term productivity of Dairy Calves. A review.
7. Corbett. 2010. OABP/OABA conf. April 2010, Guelph, Ontario

Colostrum is the first milk produced after a cow gives birth; it is a nutrient dense, immunoglobulin rich milk designed for the newborn calf. Delivering that milk with care is the key to ensuring that a calf’s immune system (immature at birth) starts to develop. Making certain that this first immunological base is provided to young calves in a timely fashion will have a critical impact on the defense against health challenges common to young animals..

During the past 2 years more than 300 calves have resided at the Grober Young Animal Development Center, located in Woodstock, Ontario. This Center focuses on nutritional and management research for pre-ruminants, such as calves (for Gro Facts e-blast please insert pict of GYADC). Each calf entering the facility was tested for total protein (a simple blood test). Total protein is a strong indicator of the colostrum program. Higher values indicate a calf received enough colostrum within a timely fashion to start building a strong immune system. Factors that will affect colostrum absorption are the cleanliness of: (a) the calf’s environment, (b) the feeding utensils (tube, bottle, nipple …) and (c) the cow before she was milked or the quality of water used to mix the colostrum replacer.

Figure 1 Body weight differences in calves that were above 5.5 mg/dL (SPT) and those that were below (FPT).

Figure 2 Relationship between total protein values and the number of health events.

Results from the Grober center show a clear pattern of improved growth in those calves with total protein greater than 5.5 mg/dL. This improved status remained long after active immunity had taken hold, to show a difference of 2.2 kg (4.8 lbs) by 10 weeks of age (Figure 1). Furthermore, calves with total protein over 5.5 mg/dL were sick less often (Figure 2). It is clear that calves with blood levels over 6.5 mg/dL show the least incidence of disease. It is critical to note that 64% of the calves lost before weaning had total protein levels below 5.5 mg/dL and 79% below 6.5 mg/dL.

Taking care in delivering quality colostrum to the calf can go a long way in protecting them from disease and death. While 5.5 mg/dL is used as a pass or fail line, the data from the Grober Young Animal Development Center demonstrated that values above 6.5 mg/dL will make a significant difference to a calf’s health. Early health and nutrition are tied into growth. If a calf is using nutrients from feed to get well, they will not be able to maximize their growth and that may impact their production in first lactation. Calves enter the world vulnerable to whatever the environment presents to them, influencing that environment to best meet their needs is setting them up for success.

Steps to a succehttp://www.grobernutrition.com/usa/ssful colostrum program:

1. Cleanliness – animals, environment and feeding utensils.
2. Delivery time – within 6 hours of birth for the first meal, another meal before 24 hours.
3. Quality of the colostrum – work with your vet and test your calves for total protein. That will help ensure that the right program is in place for success.
4. 4. Consider a colostrum replacer guaranteed to have 100g IgG within a pouch, proven to deliver successful passive transfer. Furthermore, products such as Grober ® CCT has been carefully pasteurized to eradicate precursors to disease. (and INSERT PICT OF PRODUCT available through grober nutrition….)

• Always feed colostrum, the more the calf gets before 6 hours of birth the better

o Aim for 4 litres within 6 hours and then another 2 litres before 24 hours

o Colostrum can be fed for several days and there is some evidence that colostrum after 24 hours still has some immune benefits

o Consider colostrum replacer, such as Calf’s Choice Total, as a part of a strong calf program

• Transitions are always difficult but can be dangerous in smaller calves

o When moving from colostrum to milk replacer, start milk replacer offerings slow – the calf must adjust to the new feed

o Liquid manure is common throughout the entire milk feeding period, just watch for watery manure and signs of illness such as lack of energy, dull appearance, coughing etc…

• Sanitation is critical to a good calf management program

o Wash feeding utensils daily (optimally after each feeding) with warm soapy water

o All utensils should be left to dry in an area that isn’t near animals

o Bedding should be dry and changed

o People handling calves should wash hands or use gloves – especially if having handled cows

• Jersey calves are smaller

o Smaller stomachs require frequent feedings to allow a calf to properly digest its feed

o Nutrients are energetically expensive for the calf to digest (it takes a lot of their energy to break nutrients down and absorb)

§ If too many nutrients are provided at once, the calf’s stomach will become overwhelmed and milk will either travel back to the rumen and cause bloating or it will pass right through the calf and cause nutritional scours

o Without nutrients a calf will not grow and develop, so it is best to design the feeding schedule to MAXIMIZE nutrient uptake

§ Smaller meals frequently keeps the calf well fed and allows for nutrients to be broken down and absorbed

The recommended feeding schedule below is based on 150g/L of Grober High Performance milk replacer.

This feeding schedule was developed through NRC, 2001 based on the energy requirements of a typical Jersey calf. Intakes should be adjusted to meet individual calf needs

More milk can be offered to Jersey calves starting week 2 then the feeding schedule above permits as long as multiple meals per day are also offered. Automatic calf feeding machines are a good option for allowing the calf many meals in one day.

However, calves require that increased nutrition in order to optimize growth.

Moreover, production objectives such as:

• decreasing age at first breeding,
• improving health status,
• and ultimately building a more efficient and productive dairy cow is now an expected outcome of a calf nutrition program.

The basis of the calf growth model

The calf’s digestive system is immature and requires milk or milk replacer as the primary source of nutrition. The first two months of calf growth are the greatest opportunity to optimize early growth. There has been some evidence showing a positive relationship between accelerated feeding programs and first lactation milk output (2,3,5). VanAmburgh’s research team (Cornell University) were able to determine that for every 1lb of average daily gain prior to weaning, heifers produced approximately 1,000lbs more milk throughout first lactation (6). The implications are clear that proper nutrition right from the start will have long-lasting economic benefits. Energy intake is the main driver of bodyweight gain (BWG) however protein intake can influence both BWG and body composition. Protein can be utilized efficiently during the first two months, especially when protein comes from highly digestible milk products.

While early nutrition is very important, over-conditioning (particularly between 3-15 months) can have detrimental effects on mammary gland development and thus future milk production. Feeding for higher gains in the milk phase (< 3 months; ≥ 900 g/d) may prevent heifers from over-conditioning. Furthermore, gains >840g/day (between 12 and 65 days of age) have yielded a higher proportion of cows finishing 1st lactation compared to calves gaining ≤741g/day (1). The balance of nutrients provided in the milk phase is critical (Figure 1). Providing extra calories primarily through fat can lead to fat deposition. Energy from protein enables skeletal and muscular development while enhancing other cellular functions including the immune system. The milk phase offers the best opportunity for setting your heifer up for optimal growth and future production. A milk replacer balanced correctly for protein and fat is a farmer’s best tool for producing optimal heifers.

Figure 1 Calf partitioning of fat and protein in the body based on the level of crude protein in the milk replacer (4).

Grober Young Animal Development Centre Experience

The Grober Young Animal Development Centre in Woodstock, Ontario, examined the outcome of feeding 6 litres/day vs 9 L/d of a higher protein milk replacer (Grober Excel 26% protein, 18% fat). Milk replacer was mixed at a rate of 150g/L. Calves fed 9 litres/day had significantly greater gains from week 2 to week 6 (Figure 2, p>0.05).

These higher body weights were attained even though calves drinking 6 L/day consumed more calf starter (Table 1). During the weaning phase (week 6-8) grain intakes in the higher milk group (9L/d) increased rapidly; calves fed 6 L/d continued to consume more grain. However, this increased grain intake did not result in greater body weight gains. Calves in the 9L/d group continued to outperform post weaning (Figure 2).

Figure 2 Body weight comparison between calves fed higher protein milk replacer at* 6L/day and 9L/day.

Table 1 Calf starter intake (kg/day) of calves fed 6L/day of high protein milk replacer compared to calves fed 9L/day of high protein milk replacer. (^a,b columns with different superscripts are significantly different at p<0.05; weeks 1-3 all calves consumed <150g/day.)

What it means to the producer

In raising heifers, the largest cost inputs are feed and days of growth needed to achieve productive status. Optimum heifer growth is a function of the time to reach first calving with the correct bodyweight, height, age and development to express full lactation potential. Maximizing the potential production and minimizing days to first calving can help in overall farm economics.

When applying a tool developed by the University of Wisconsin, considerable cost benefit can be shown when feeding an optimal program and calving at 22.8 months.

Table 2 The cost benefits per calf of an optimal feeding program, using typical figures.

Using University of Wisconsin – management tool http://www.uwex.edu/ces/dairymgt/tools/index.html

*Milk replacer costs for the conventional and optimal programs are based on Grober Excel and calf starter 22%, May 2010.

Summary – Benefits and Opportunities of Optimal Feeding Programs

Cost benefit at weaning

• Improved growth rate - calves on optimal milk replacer programs have higher weight gain. This improved growth continues beyond weaning.
• Improved health – strong, well nourished calves have an enhanced immune system and improved response to disease challenge.

Cost benefit at calving

• Reduced heifer replacement costs – decreased time to breeding and first calving
• Improved milk production ability – High early gains (pre-3 months) allows for energy at a time when growth and development of the mammary glands are not adversely affected.

References

1. Bach, A. 2010. Associations between several aspects of heifer development and dairy cow longevity. (abst ADSA Denver)
2. Ballard, C. H. Wolford, T. Sato, K. Uchida, M. Suekawa, Y. Yabuuchi, and K. Kobayashi. 2005. The effect of feeding three milk replacer regimens preweaning on first lactation performance of Holstein cattle. J. Dairy Sci. 88:22(abst).
3. Bar-Peled, U., B. Robinson, E. Maltz, H. Tagari, Y. Folman, I. Bruckental, H. Voet, H. Gacitua, and A.R. Lehrer. 1997. Increased weight gain and effects on production parameters of Holstein heifers that were allowed to suckle. J. Dairy Sci. 80:2523-2528.
4. Bartlett, K. S. 2001. Interactions of protein and energy supply from milk replacers on growth and body composition of dairy calves. M.S. Thesis, University of Illinois, Urbana.
5. Foldager, J. and C.C. Krohn. 1994. Heifer calves reared on very high or normal levels of whole milk from birth to 6-8 weeks of age and their subsequent milk production. Proc. Soc. Nutr. Physiol.,3.
6. Van Amburgh, M. 2007. Early Life Management and Long-Term productivity of Dairy Calves. A review.

Newborn animals are vulnerable to infection and disease. Immunoglobulins (Ig’s) are the first defence against disease and necessary for stimulation of the immune system.

Young ruminants (calves, lambs, kids) are born with negligible circulating concentrations of immunoglobulins (antibodies). Ig’s do not pass across the placenta prior to birth. Since there is no maternal sharing, ensuring that calves receive these Ig’s at birth is the only way to protect a newborn from environmental and disease challenges. Colostrum must be fed as soon as possible (within the first hour, preferably within 30 minutes of birth). Ig’s are absorbed intact into the newborn’s blood stream within a 6 hour window.

Young animal diseases often affect the gastrointestinal tract where they cause damage and symptoms of disease – diarrhea and dehydration. The intestines of young animals are not fully developed for several months. Ig cells help protect the gastrointestinal tract from pathogens. Colostrum also has a laxative effect and stimulates the normal function of the digestive tract.

Most importantly perhaps, Ig’s from colostrum stimulate the immune system. By building this “memory bank”, young animals now have the tools to mount a defense against disease.

Observations from the Grober Young Animal Development Centre (GYADC)

Further to disease prevention, early ingestion of good quality colostrum supports better gains in calves. During 2009 at the Grober Young Animal Development Centre, all calves entering the facility were tested for total proteins using blood serum. Calves were classified as failure of passive transfer (FPT) for total protein values <5.5mg/dL and successful passive transfer (SPT) for value above 5.6 mg/dL. All calves had received dam’s colostrum on their home farm according to a standard protocol.

During two separate trials at the Centre, calf growth was plotted and graphed according to total protein results (FPT or SPT).

In trial one, growth was plotted over a 10 week period. By the 5th week, SPT calves out-weighed FPT calves by 1.6kg (3.5lb) and by week 10 by 2.2kg (4.8lb). All calves were fed the same volume of Grober Excel milk replacer (6L/day).

In a second feeding trial, calves were fed an accelerated amount of Grober Excel (9L/day). By 10 weeks SPT calves outweighed FPT calves by 5.4kg (11.9lb) (see Figure 1). Even by 10 weeks of age, the gap in body weights between the two groups did not narrow. For every gram of milk replacer fed, the calves with SPT utilized these nutrients with greater efficiency. This data supports the vital concept that the first meal (colostrum) provides rich nutrients and antibodies with long term benefits.

Figure 1 Body weight comparison between calves with successful passive transfer and failure passive transfer.

What is Colostrum?

Colostrum is the thick, creamy, yellow secretion provided from the mammary gland for the first 24 hours after birth.

Colostrum provides a source of immunoglobulins (Ig’s) and other nutrients (protein, energy, vitamins and minerals, gut growth factors) vital for the newborn.

Immunoglobulins (antibodies) help to prevent infections by identifying and destroying pathogens. There are three main Ig’s identified in cow’s milk: IgG, IgA and IgM. The antibodies that the dam passes on depends on the diseases she has been exposed to throughout her life. First lactation animals, for this reason, will often secrete a more limited range of antibodies.

Newborns are born with very low energy stores and generally poor insulative protection, especially during the first few hours after birth. Energy from colostrum (through fat and lactose) supplies calories to help with thermoregulation. Heat production is important for survival and in particular, for animals born into cold environments in helping to prevent hypothermia. Proteins in colostrum are utilized for protein synthesis in addition to the absorption of Ig’s.

Vitamins A, D and E do not cross the placenta in significant amounts, so the newborn must rely on oral ingestion for these vitamins. Levels in colostrum are significantly higher than milk, but will depend on maternal nutrition prior to birth. These vitamins are important to the animal for the resistance of disease.

Growth factors are thought to promote gut growth and development, especially during the first 24-48 hours after birth.

Collection, Feeding, Handling & Storage

Please visit the University of Wisconsin, School of Veterinary Medicine web site for colostrum handling protocol.

http://www.vetmed.wisc.edu/dms/fapm/fapmtools/8calf/colosprot.pdf

http://www.vetmed.wisc.edu/dms/fapm/fapmtools/calves.htm

Calf’s Choice Total

A quality commercial colostrum replacer product is a safe and effective alternative to dam’s colostrum. Colostrum replacers provide consistent, disease free, and guaranteed levels of Ig’s. Along with the protective immunity, certain colostrum replacers offer rich nutrition needed by young animals. Colostrum replacers are of particular importance when high quality colostrum is not available or during a Johne’s eradication program.

Commercial products must provide sufficient biologically active IgG’s. Calf’s Choice Total is a supplement product that guarantees 100g of IgG per package (470g). Typically this is enough to have successful passive transfer. This product is Canadian sourced colostrum and tested with selection for antibodies toward specific diseases such as E. coli, Bovine Rotavirus and Bovine Coronavirus. All products are tested to ensure that it is free of Johne’s bacterium, free of Salmonella and free of E. coli.

Calf’s Choice Total was compared to other colostrum replacer products on the market (see Figure 2). Through both feeding approaches (1 bag or 2), calves fed Calf’s Choice Total not only met minimum SPT levels but surpassed those levels; the competitor product in both cases did not achieve minimum threshold.

*Attention to detail is required in storage and mixing instructions (i.e. use clean vessels for mixing and feeding, clean water to rehydrate colostrum supplements or replacers, etc.). Store product in a cool dry place and once mixed, use immediately.

Kathleen Shore, MSc.
Nutritionist
Grober Nutrition
(800) 265-7863 ex.201
kshore@grober.com

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