Management of Young Calves for the Small Scale Hobbiest Part 1: New Born Calf Allen Young, Extension Dairy Specialist

A newborn calf is a very vulnerable animal and can be more susceptible to disease. Great care is required in nurturing it through the first very critical 6 to 8 weeks of life. Whether born on your place or purchased, the calf represents an investment you cannot afford to lose. Your initial care of the newborn calf greatly influences its performance in the following weeks and even years. Here are some tips that will help you be successful. 1. Start with the mother. She must receive proper nutrition before calving. Deficiencies in the diet may reduce the nutritive value of the first milk available to the calf (colostrum). Colostrum provides needed immunity and nutrition for the newborn calf (Heinrichs). Calves not receiving adequate colostrum will be at risk for disease until their own immunity can ramp up by approximately 2 to 3 months of age. If you purchase the calf off farm you may not have much opportunity to influence what the mother receives. You can inquire about the quality and amount of colostrum the previous owner provided for the calf. 2. Provide a clean, dry place for calving (Gold Standard