Newborn calves and the 1-2-3 rule

Brian McDonnell writes about this in an article published on the Irish agricultural portal Agriland: “The importance of obtaining high-quality colostrum for calves from the moment of birth cannot be underestimated, including during the autumn calving period for winter milk production and livestock reproduction. As is known,calves are born without immunity and the only way to obtain maternal antibodies is through colostrum. 

The simple 1-2-3 method allows you to better understand and remember how to feed colostrum to calves:

1. Use the first milk (colostrum) from the cow;

2.Feed colostrum to the calf within the first two hours after birth;

3.Calves should be given at least 3 liters of good quality colostrum.

However, calves should only be fed colostrum with a Brix content of more than 22% - this is a simple tool for determining the quality of colostrum. A value above 22 percent means that colostrum contains 50 mg/ml immunoglobulins.

There are times when the calf has to be given colostrum through a tube. The procedure is not overly complicated, but it is responsible, since incorrect placement of the tube has potentially fatal consequences if colostrum enters the calf's lungs. First of all, before using the probe, inspect the tube for damage. If everything is ok, wet/soften the end of the probe with warm water. In a calm environment, place the calf in a corner with one hand under the muzzle to keep the head and neck in a natural position.

Slowly pass the tube through the tongue to the back of the mouth, ensuring that the tube enters the esophagus. Be very careful to ensure that the tube goes into the esophagus and not into the trachea. When the tube is positioned correctly, the calf should be comfortable and able to swallow. Before giving colostrum, double check the location of the zone by feeling the neck area - the tube must be clearly palpable, otherwise the tube has entered the trachea. Once you have ensured that the tube is positioned correctly, you can begin feeding colostrum, working quietly and calmly to minimize stress on the calf.”