As snow and frigid temperatures remind us that it’s still winter, it’s a good time to remind livestock producers that calves are especially vulnerable in these conditions.
Healthy calves make for productive cows, but frequently sick calves may experience impaired growth and produce less milk during their lifetimes.
The pre-weaning period can be challenging under any circumstances, but extreme weather fluctuations put extra stress on calf immune systems. Additional care must be taken to keep calves healthy and growing during winter. The wealth of advice on this subject can be overwhelming, but there are three basic rules to keep in mind: 1) keep calves warm and dry, 2) make sure calves have enough energy, and 3) don’t forget about hydration (water and electrolytes).
Rule 1: Keep calves warm and dry
The thermoneutral zone is the temperature range in which heat loss equals heat production. For newborn calves, this zone is 50 to 78 degrees Fahrenheit. For one-month old calves, the range is 32 to 78 degrees Fahrenheit. Below these ranges, calves must use extra energy to maintain normal body temperatures.
Calves have a large surface area to body mass ratio, which causes them to lose heat more rapidly than larger animals. Additionally, calves have low body fat reserves. If they are forced to burn what little fat they have to maintain their body temperatures, growth and immune function can be compromised.
Keeping calves warm and dry means minimizing heat loss. Calf hutches should be bedded with enough dry, organic bedding, such as straw, so that calves can nestle for warmth. The straw should be deep enough to cover their legs when they are lying down. Hutches should be positioned in a well-drained area to prevent moisture accumulation. Calf coats may also be used to minimize body heat loss.
Rule 2: Make sure calves have enough energy
“Calves need extra energy during cold weather. Producers may need to add an extra feeding, feed more at each feeding, or increase the fat content of each feeding to meet calves’ maintenance requirements,” said William A. Zimmer, DVM, President of Bio-Vet, Inc. “Calf milk/milk replacer additives such as Gener™ K or Generator™ WS can also provide nutritional and microbial support.”
Rule 3: Don’t forget about hydration
Calves need access to clean, fresh water in every season. Water plays a role in rumen development, and is particularly necessary for maintaining hydration when milk total solids are high.
The occurrence of diarrhea is more likely in winter, and this can result in progressive dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. Electrolytes are vital for restoring and maintaining proper fluid levels for scouring calves, and can provide energy to support recovery.
Bio-Vet products like PectiLyte™, Calf GoldLyte® and Calf BYCEPS™ B can be used to supply electrolytes, microbials and nutrients to calves.
Keep a supply of electrolytes available to support hydration during scours outbreaks. Additional water should be provided when electrolytes are mixed with milk or milk replacer. When mixed with water, electrolytes should be fed at least 30 minutes prior to feeding milk or milk replacer.
