A calf’s first meal – colostrum – is crucial for laying the foundation of a healthy and productive life. Not only is colostrum vital during the first moments of life, but it also provides additional benefits for stress-born calves or calves that experience scours.
Why colostrum matters
Colostrum is rich in immunoglobulins (IgGs), nutrients and energy. It is the most crucial factor in supporting a calf’s immune system from day one. Many beef calves don’t get enough—or high enough quality—colostrum in time, leaving them vulnerable to diseases like scours.
To protect them, calves need 300g of IgG within the first eight hours of life.
Timing matters
For calves to absorb IgG effectively, they need colostrum within the first two hours after birth. After this time, their ability to absorb IgG drops quickly.
Stressful births, like dystocia or hard-pulling, can make it even harder for calves to absorb IgGs. In these cases, don’t rely only on the dam’s colostrum. Instead, feed stressed calves colostrum with higher IgG levels to ensure they get the immunity they need. Provide a minimum of 200g IgG within the first two hours of life. If they do not stand to suckle from the dam within six hours of that initial feeding, follow with an additional 100g IgG.
There are other scenarios where a colostrum replacer or supplement might be necessary:
• Night calving: Night-born calves often experience delayed nursing. Immediate supplementation ensures they don’t miss critical IgG absorption windows.
• First-calf heifers: These dams typically produce less colostrum, so their calves benefit from colostrum replacers or supplements to ensure an adequate feeding.
• Cold stress: Calves born in cold weather require the energy from colostrum to regulate body temperature and prevent hypothermia.
Use colostrum to rebuild gut health and restore healthy stool
Scours (diarrhea) is a common issue for calves, often leading to dehydration, malnutrition and sometimes even death. Proper colostrum feedings are proven to support a healthy intestinal tract and restore normal stool during stressful times like scours. The antibodies in colostrum target the harmful germs, while its nutrients and energy replenish lost fluids and support recovery. In fact, studies show colostrum shortens the duration of diarrhea and improves average daily gain in preweaned calves.¹ Giving colostrum replacers or supplements to sick calves ensures they get consistent levels of IgG, especially when maternal colostrum is unreliable.
Scours Symptoms
- Bright yellow or white feces
- Depressed calves that are reluctant to feed
- Sunken eyes and/or a temperature
- Skin remaining peaked or tented when lifted, indicating dehydration
- Weight loss and weakness
How to use colostrum as a scours treatment
1. Add 140-150g of colostrum powder to 1 qt/L of water. Use water warmed to 110-120° F (43.3-48.8° C) for easy mixing.
Pro Tip: Use whole bovine colostrum replacers & supplements to ensure high-quality immunoglobulins and energy content. Click here to learn about the differences between whole bovine colostrum and fractionated colostrum.
2. Feed this colostrum at least 2 hours before or after milk feeding.
3. Feed for at least 5 days or until stool is normal.
NOTE: If calves do not have an appetite, tube feed the calf.
Replenish electrolytes and combat dehydration too
Once scouring, a calf becomes rapidly dehydrated, acidotic and low in essential electrolytes. In fact, they can lose up to 5-10% of their body weight in fluids daily. It is recommended to feed an electrolyte, such as RumiLife® Calf Electrolyte, in addition to colostrum to rehydrate and restore electrolyte balance. When using both, mix 140-150g of colostrum and electrolytes in 2 liters of water.
Explore our high-quality SCCL whole bovine colostrum options.
