FOCUS ON CALVES Technical advice for rearing healthy calves
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www.wynnstay.co.uk
WELCOME TO FOCUS ON CALVES A full 12 months since our last publication, and the world is, no doubt, a different place than we could ever have imagined 365 days ago.
still so much research emerging. Laura takes us through how the benefits of colostrum don’t end at the first feed, and the importance of transition milk on page 10, with Beth exploring colostrum production on page 26.
I am confident that the challenges we have faced in the Covid-19 pandemic, will leave us with a stronger farming community than we have seen before.
After a year of volatile skim prices on farm, Dr Jessica Cooke talks us through the science of moving from a skim to a whey, ensuring we are confident in making the switch.
As you turn the pages on our 7th Edition of Focus on Calves, you will find an insight into the latest research and discussions on calf rearing. Our experienced calf team are always on hand to answer any of your youngstock queries – their contact details can be found on page 4.
And finally, don’t forget to test your calf judging skills and enter our online competition to win a pallet of our new SuperNova milk powder, with details on page 31.
Recent pressures on milk price, have, understandably, seen some farmers thinking of rearing calves on whole milk – turn to page 8 as Elinor talks us through some of the considerations around feeding pasteurised milk to calves.
Eimear Diamond
Calf & Youngstock Manager
m: 07881 379008 e: eimear.diamond@wynnstay.co.uk
Every year we think we understand everything there is to know about colostrum, and each time we are surprised that there is
@diamondcalf1
INSIDE THIS ISSUE: 4. Get to know our Calf & Youngstock team
18. Water
6. Calf-rearing essentials
20. Completing the osmolality story
7. Pneumonia and scours – a vet’s perspective
22. Be confident in a switch to whey for young calves
8. The myths of feeding pasteurised milk
23. H&L calf expert Q&A
10. Transition milk: the best start doesn’t end at colostrum
24. Workshops highlight the critical success factors for effective dairy calf rearing
11. Beef calves, no longer a by-product for the dairy industry
26. Optimal colostrum quality and quantity - it comes from the mother!
12. WYNNGUARD - a bespoke health package exclusively available from Wynnstay
28. Too hot to handle 30. Improving management and profit of calf rearing
14. Protein in heifer rations 16. How well do you know your own calf rearing system?
For further information contact the Wynnstay Calf & Youngstock Team
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WYNNSTAY AGRICULTURE
FOCUS ON CALVES 2020
NEW We have added a NEW Calf Milk Replacer to the WYNNGOLDâ„¢ range:
Protein
Oil
23%*
25%
Made with 100% Dairy Protein Powder; designed to closely mimic the composition of whole milk
*
3
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GET TO KNOW OUR CALF & YOUNGSTOCK TEAM Eimear Diamond
Calf & Youngstock Manager
m: 07881 379008 e: eimear.diamond@wynnstay.co.uk @diamondcalf1
Raised on a beef farm in Northern Ireland, Eimear knows how getting the first few months of a calf’s life correct results in a more productive cow and a better-quality carcass. Eimear joined the Wynnstay team in 2017 as a Calf Specialist, covering the South-West of England. In October 2018, Eimear was Product Manager for Calf and Lamb Milk Replacers when she was promoted to Calf & Youngstock Team Manager. Eimear has a BSc in Animal Behaviour and Welfare from Bristol University and has developed a keen eye for good carcass quality.
FUN FACT
What is your favourite spirit? Whiskey
Jess Yeomans
Sammy Howorth
m: 07990 584740 e: jess.charlton@wynnstay.co.uk
m: 07810 444948 e: sammy.howorth@wynnstay.co.uk
Calf & Youngstock Specialist Shropshire, Cheshire, Staffordshire & N. Wales
Calf & Youngstock Specialist Lancashire & Cumbria
@charltoncalf1
@howorthcalf1
Sammy is from a beef and sheep farm in the hills of the Rossendale Valley. On the rare occasion she isn’t milking, lambing or feeding calves outside of work, she enjoys walking, swimming and playing netball. Sammy is currently testing her patience levels training her Kelpie pup, Holly. Previously working as a Vet Tech for a progressive farm animal vets practice after University, she developed a greater knowledge of the health and production aspects of dairy farming, in particular, successful calf rearing. Having seen many calf rearing systems, she has an excellent understanding of the importance of setting clear goals and getting things right from the start to ensure healthy and profitable animals. Sammy, covers Lancashire and Cumbria.
Jess joined as a Wynnstay Calf Specialist in January 2017. She previously worked as an Agricultural Lecturer and a Veterinary Technician, specialising in bovine Embryo Transfer. Jess gained a (BSc) degree in Animal Heath at Harper Adams university and worked as a herdsman and calf rearer on a dairy farm in Cheshire. She lives on a 650-cow spilt block calving dairy unit in Shropshire. Jess covers North Herefordshire, Shropshire, Cheshire, Staffordshire and mid to north wales, providing bespoke advice on calf performance for herd longevity.
GET TO KNOW OUR CALF & YOUNGSTOCK TEAM
FUN FACT
If a friend saw you in the back of a police car, what would they expect you were in trouble for?
FUN FACT
Probably trying to rescue a stray or escaped animal or something that didn’t need to be rescued
Worst school memory?
Tripping over a boy’s foot and splitting my head open (that was my early sign to stay away from boys!)
Millie Hendy
Calf & Youngstock Specialist South West & Midlands
Laura Monk
Calf & Youngstock Specialist Cornwall & Devon
m: 07717 495746 e: millie.hendy@wynnstay.co.uk
m: 07767 275662 e: laura.monk@wynnstay.co.uk
@hendycalf1
Millie joined the Wynnstay calf and youngstock team in 2017. A farmer’s daughter raised on a mixed beef and sheep farm near Bath, Millie brings a practical and hands-on approach to youngstock rearing. With a keen passion for all types of livestock through success in the show ring, stock judging, and having established her own pedigree shorthorn herd, Millie brings a wealth of knowledge on the beef industry. Previously working as a livestock buyer has also led to a great understanding of what is required when it comes to the end market and how maximising feed efficiencies and driving growth rates is key for profitability. Millie covers Gloucestershire, South Herefordshire, North Wiltshire, North Somerset and eastwards along the M4 corridor.
@monkcalf1
A sheep farmer’s daughter from Mid Cornwall, Laura is integral to sheep enterprises at her home, breeding and selling pedigree Charollais and Texel sheep. The farm is also involved in rearing beefcross dairy calves. Laura gained almost 10 years relief milking experience on different systems, from three times a day high-input, to spring calving grassbased herds. Laura graduated from the Royal Agricultural University, Cirencester with an (Hons) Degree in Agricultural Management, with Advanced Livestock Production. She advises on the end requirements of calves in varying systems, and covers Cornwall and Devon.
FUN FACT
FUN FACT
What animal would you say you are most comparable to and why?
What is better than sliced bread?
Lambing sheep, when it all goes well
Daschund – short in the leg and tanned
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WYNNSTAY AGRICULTURE
FOCUS ON CALVES 2020
GET TO KNOW OUR CALF & YOUNGSTOCK TEAM Elinor Thomas
Kerry Goodland
Calf & Youngstock Specialist Mid & South Wales
Calf & Youngstock Specialist Somerset, Dorset and South Hampshire
m: 07500 979398 e: elinor.thomas@wynnstay.co.uk
m: 07785 752441 e: kerry.goodland@wynnstay.co.uk
@thomascalf1
@goodlandcalf1
A farmer’s daughter raised on a dairy farm in South Wales, Elinor studied for a foundation degree in Agriculture at Gelli Aur College, as manager of a 200-cow dairy herd on a farm in the Vale of Glamorgan. Elinor covers Mid and East Wales through to Haverfordwest, West Wales. She advises on all aspects of calf rearing, from milk powders, to heifer feed and calf housing.
Having grown up on the family dairy farm in Somerset, when the farm was sold in 2014 Kerry travelled to New Zealand working on a 500 cow dairy farm, on the South Island for around a year. Kerry has recently joined the Wynnstay calf and youngstock team, having previously worked as a calf rearer and farm admin assistant on a large, autumn lock calving herd in Somerset. Helping to rear around 500 replacement heifers and 2,000 beef calves during the block has provided excellent experience with automatic feeders and all the challenges rearing large numbers of calves can present. Kerry is covering Somerset, Dorset and South Hampshire.
FUN FACT
What would be your most embarrassing experience? I have too many that I can’t say, but the most recent was running out of fuel on a busy country lane
FUN FACT
If you could live anywhere where would it be?
Lake Summit - North Carolina
Key
Sammy
Laura
Jess
Millie Tom
Elinor Laura
5
GET TO KNOW OUR CALF & YOUNGSTOCK TEAM
Kerry
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CALF REARING ESSENTIALS Förster Technik Vario Feeder
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Milk Bar 1 Teat Feeder 3L
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The troughs have compartments, each holding 2L to the ridge along the back or 3L to the top of the weirs
• Convenient hand grip
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• Holds 3L
Wydale Mobile Milk Mixer 110L MKM1 34951
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18765
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Calf Cart
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WAS £435
• Requires a 240 volt electrical supply
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Robust 2.5L bag with a stomach feeder tube in a clear, sterilized, Euro slot holder bag
• Pivot-action design to lower the cart to the ground, less risk of injury to you or the calf
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Cyclex 5L/25L
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Speedy Feeder Calf Feeder 2.5L 14170
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Wynnsan Actigel 5L/25L
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Stabilised iodophor disinfectant for surfaces and foot dip applications. Full DEFRA, DARDNI and Dept of Agri ROI approval. Low staining formulation which is economical in use
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6
A high performance, long-cling, foam detergent. Effective for fat and protein removal on heavilysoiled areas. Suitable for hard and soft water
WYNNSTAY AGRICULTURE
FOCUS ON CALVES 2020
PNEUMONIA AND SCOURS – A VET’S PERSPECTIVE Pneumonia and scours are the two main problems in calves that vet advice is asked for. Often these diseases occur in severe outbreaks where calves can be lost if not treated appropriately and quickly, but these can be prevented avoiding stress, production losses and saving you money on vet bills! Pneumonia There are several causes of pneumonia (Table 1), most commonly viruses cause some lung damage before secondary bacteria colonise creating further damage. This secondary damage causes clinical signs and often can be so extensive that it becomes permanent. Viruses
Secondary bacteria
Parainfluenza III (PI3)
Mannhaeimia spp.
Respiratory syncytical virus (RSV)
Pasturella multocida
Infectious bovine rhinotracheitis (IBR)
Histophilun somnus
Table 1: Common Pneumonia-causing pathogens
Clinical signs Often we see calves needing abdominal effort to breathe, by this time treatment is both expensive and too late, as permanent and irreversible lung damage has already occurred. Cows have a high oxygen requirement, but comparatively small lungs compared to other animals, consequently any lung damage seriously affects that animal for the rest of its life, reducing its productivity, longevity and profit.
Treatment Contrary to many people’s beliefs, milk should not be withdrawn in scour cases. Scouring calves are not only needing energy and nutrients to grow, they are losing large amounts of water through the scour. Milk is essential to provide the energy and nutrients for life and so normal milk feeds should be continued during treatment. These milk feeds should be supplemented with electrolytes in water, which often needs to be stomach tubed. A scouring calf which appears bright often needs at least 4L of water as well as two 2L milk feeds.
Treatment Many find the Wisconsin calf respiratory scoring system a useful method to monitor signs and treat early, as this reduces the amount of lung damage. While antibiotics are often needed anti-inflammatories are key in treating pneumonia and are highly effective when given early.
Prevention Colostrum and cleanliness are key to preventing early calf scours. As calves are born with no immunity, they need to absorb Igs in their first 24 hours of life. Colostrum can be boosted by vaccinating cows for rotavirus, coronavirus and E. coli but calves still need to be given 4L within two hours of birth for optimal immunity transfer. Cryptosporidium can only be combatted with cleanliness. It is important to remember that not all disinfectants kill cryptosporidium, so if this is an issue on your farm ensure you are using the correct product.
Prevention As always, prevention is better than cure! There are calf pneumonia vaccines given intranasally from 10 days old. These are highly effective, however, it is important to understand the pathogens causing your calf pneumonia before using them. This can be done simply by blood sampling, post mortems or broncho-alveolar lavage in live calves; so speak to your vet. Ventilation is also really important in preventing pneumonia. Ensuring appropriate air changes for the calves and not mixing animals of different ages in the same air space is crucial.
Scour kits are quick and easy tests to understand what pathogens are on your farm, so any outbreaks of scour should be tested immediately. Often this will not change treatment choices but may alter your management practices to prevent scours on your farm in the future.
Scours There are several pathogens that cause scours in very young calves including; rotavirus, coronavirus, E. coli and cryptosporidium. It is important to remember that diarrhoea is not the cause of death in scour cases, dehydration is the killer. Consequently looking at how sunken the eyeballs are is an important measure of hydration and influences the treatment decisions.
Miranda Timmerman ProStock Vets
m: 07495 678642 www.prostockvets.com
7
PNEUMONIA AND SCOURS
If oral rehydration can be started early enough in the disease process, veterinary intervention, such as dripping calves, can often be avoided.
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THE myths of feeding pasteurised milk When selecting a feeding programme for your calves there are pros and cons to consider before making the move: disease risk, nutrient intake for growth performance, and economics. You may think that pasteurisation is the best option for your system and so it may be, but it might be worth reading on to consider some of the myths of pasteurising.
What is the purpose of pasteurising The purpose of pasteurising is to heat the milk to a temperature that safely decreases the pathogens in the milk. Most commonly used on farms in the UK is batch pasteurisation and when the temperature reaches 65.5°C and is maintained for 30 minutes it is suggested that this is adequate time to destroy 95.5% of the diseases and pathogens whilst keeping the important nutrients intact. (Stabel, 2001)
Myth 1. ‘Pasteurising whole milk kills 100% of the bacteria’
THE MYTHS OF FEEDING PASTEURISED MILK
Wrong. Pasteurising is a great way of improving the quality of your milk, but bacteria can still be present even after pasteurisation. Although pasteurisation reduces the microbial load it is not sterilisation!! And a high bacterial load in your milk will not be eliminated by the process (Taeasg, 2020). If not stored correctly after pasteurisation bacteria will grow rapidly, therefore, cleanliness, sterilisation and good milk management are essential. If there is to be a delay between pasteurisation and feeding then cooling the milk in temperatures between 10-20°C is essential, the bacteria in the milk will begin to replicate in the warm weather if this process is delayed. (Holm & Laue 2020)
Myth 2. ‘Calves get all the best nutrients from pasteurised milk’ Wrong. One of the main benefits of feeding CMR is the consistency. The fats, proteins and solids can vary significantly in whole milk, making it difficult for the calf to maintain a consistent diet, this can cause digestive upset for the calves. Consider using a Brix refractometer to determine your solid content of your whole milk. It is recommended to add two points to the value on your Brix reading. So… if the number on the Brix reading is 10.5 it would be advised to add 2.0 which would bring your solids to 12.5. It is important to check this on a daily basis to ensure there is not high variability. The suggested quality goals are shown in the table below. Table 1 Quality goals of pasteurised waste milk fed to calves Parameter
Goal
Standard plate count
<20,000 cfu/ml
Total solids
>12%
Fat
>3.5%
Protein
>3.0%
(Hubbard Feeds, 2018)
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WYNNSTAY AGRICULTURE
FOCUS ON CALVES 2020
Myth 3. ‘It is cheaper to feed pasteurised milk’ Consider the costs. The costs of collecting milk, pasteurising, and storing milk before and after pasteurisation must be evaluated before you consider installing pasteurisation equipment. Capital cost must be assessed, cost will vary depending on the pasteuriser choice, size and capacity along with which manufacture you choose, not forgetting the cost of electric and water once installed, it costs approximately £0.56/day to run the pasteuriser (e.g. water, heating). Things to consider: • • • • • • • • • • •
Is the existing hot water heater working (and is it hot enough)? Are there any special electrical requirements? Water supply Drainage requirements Purchase and installation costs Training farm staff to properly use and clean the equipment Time/labour to use and clean equipment Variable costs Servicing Moving and storing milk before and after pasteurisation Monitoring performance
Myth 4. Wrong. If deciding to use pasteurised waste milk, maybe you should think about this one. Antibiotics are not affected by pasteurisation, be careful because calves can develop an antibiotic resistance. One study showed that calves fed pasteurised waste milk had an increase in antibiotic resistance compared to calves fed whole milk, it can also be unpalatable to the calf, increasing the concern of poor calf growth.
Summary Feeding pasteurised milk can be a good source of nutrition for calves which, if fed correctly, can produce a low cost, high value feed for calves. Success in pasteurising whole milk is the ability to control the milk before and after pasteurisation to avoid contamination. Considering all of your options and weighing out the pros and cons is important to make sure this is the right decision.
Elinor Thomas
Calf & Youngstock Specialist Mid & South Wales
m: 07500 979398 e: elinor.thomas@wynnstay.co.uk
9
@thomascalf1
THE MYTHS OF FEEDING PASTEURISED MILK
‘Pasteurisation eliminates the trace of antibiotic milk’
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TRANSITION MILK: THE BEST START DOESN’T END AT COLOSTRUM Colostrum is a hot topic in calf rearing and rightly so. Feeding 10% of the calf’s bodyweight in high quality colostrum as quickly as we can ensures the greatest level of Ig absorption. However, the biological role of colostrum extends far beyond the transfer of immunity. Immunoglobulins are just one piece of the colostrum puzzle – albeit the largest piece, but swapping directly from colostrum to whole milk/milk replacer skips a vital nutritional phase for the calf. There are significant differences in the composition and levels of sugars, proteins, fats, vitamins and minerals in colostrum and mature milk and these variations don’t disappear overnight. We concentrate a lot on reducing stress around the nutritional changes at weaning and overlook the abrupt transition from colostrum to milk which, in nature, is a much more gradual juncture. This is where we need to be considering a transition milk phase; to ensure we are making better use of the valuable constituents of colostrum that extend beyond the immunoglobulins. Colostrum Milking Unit
1
2
3
4
5
Mature Milk
Dry Matter
%
24.5
19.0
16.0
15.5
15.3
12.2
Fat
%
6.4
5.6
4.6
5.0
5.0
3.9
Protein
%
13.3
8.5
6.2
5.4
4.8
3.2
mM
390
230
190
140
115
ND
Lactoferrin
g/L
1.84
0.86
0.46
0.36
ND
ND
Insulin
µg/L
65
35
16
8
7
1
Growth Hormone
µg/L
1.5
0.5
ND
ND
ND
ND
Insulin-like Growth Factor 1
µg/L
310
195
105
62
49
ND
Essential Amino Acids
(Conneely et al., 2014)
Sugars: Oligosaccharides (OS) in milk are receiving more attention due to their bioactive properties as a prebiotic, offering protection against microbial pathogens and promoting the growth of beneficial microflora in the colon. In the first three days of lactation 40 different OS can be identified, whereas in mature milk they are only present in trace amounts. 70% of the OS found in colostrum is sialyllactose (SL) a source of sialic acid which is used in humans to help fight virus. Proteins: Immunoglobulins make up around 70% of the protein in colostrum and levels in the milk fall sharply in the first three days. Although the calf’s ability to absorb them ceases at 24h the Igs can still function partially in the gut lumen to control pathogens. Other functional proteins remain at elevated levels in milk for around one week post-partum. These proteins play roles in the transfer of passive immunity, drive growth, protect against gastro mucosal injury, transport small molecules, offer antibacterial protection and modulate the immune system to name but a few.
TRANSITION MILK
Fats: As we know, fat levels in colostrum are generally higher than in mature milk but the composition of fats also differ, with colostrum containing higher levels of long-chain fats which decrease over a period of five days and a lower level of shortchain fats which increase during the same period. The levels of phospholipids in colostrum are reduced and increase to their normal level from days three to seven post-partum. Vitamins and Minerals: The ash content of colostrum is greater; this contributes towards its higher dry matter %. Copper, iron, zinc and manganese are increased 1.7,10.7,10.9 and 3.3-fold respectively. When looking at milk powders we access the level of vitamin E due to the role it plays in supporting the immune system, the vitamin E level in colostrum remains elevated until milking 6. Introducing five feeds of 50% colostrum/50% milk between the colostrum feeding and milk feeding stages has been found to have the same benefits on gut health and villi length as feeding five extra feeds of colostrum. Mimicking the transition phase in this way allows the calf to receive the additional nutrients intended to overcome the early challenges in life. This could be using whole colostrum, preferably pasteurised, or using a high-quality colostrum replacer, we recommend those containing 100% dried bovine colostrum.
Laura Monk
Calf & Youngstock Specialist Cornwall, Devon, South Somerset 10
m: 07767 275662 e: laura.monk@wynnstay.co.uk
@monkcalf1
WYNNSTAY AGRICULTURE
FOCUS ON CALVES 2020
BEEF CALVES, NO LONGER A BY-PRODUCT FOR THE DAIRY INDUSTRY Approximately 50% of UK beef production is sourced from dairy-cross-beef. The other 50% is sourced from suckler herds. Experts predict by 2023 we will see over 60% of beef being produce from the UK dairy herds. Agricultural technology has developed rapidly over the last decade. This development has seen massive improvements in the quality of sexed female semen by AI companies. Increased conception rates have allowed dairy farmers to free up animals that are not of genetic interest to the herd, allowing more animals to be AI’d to beef semen. Approximately 50% of UK beef production is sourced from dairy-cross-beef; the other 50% is sourced from suckler herds. Experts predict by 2023, we will see over 60% beef being produce from the UK dairy herds.
of nutrition will not be worth the additional value. A lesser quality calf will result in; poor feed efficiencies, weight gains and thrive, and potentially result in higher mortalities.
The hot topic and a buzzword within the beef industry at the moment is integration and, all companies, whether it be processors, retailers or farmers, are looking to drive efficiencies within their industries and deliver a consistent product to their customer. Customers are now showing a growing interest in where their meat is sourced from, how the animal is produced, as well as wanting the animal to have limited movements.
Leading breeding companies have provided breeding strategies, not only to drive efficiencies in their dairy business but also the beef. Genomic testing has allowed dairy farmers to identify the most genetically profitable females within their herd and these females will be AI’d using female sexed semen to provide adequate replacements within the herd, thus eradicating the need for surplus heifers and the risk of overstocking. Second tier of females in the herd will still be fertile animals but not of genetic interest for your replacements, these are the animals that qualify for using male sexed semen to help improve calf revenue output, also considered as a 13th milk cheque. With milk processors setting new standards for the health and welfare of our industry, it is something we have all taken into consideration and many of us put into practise: minimising the number of dairy bull calves produced and maximising the number of beef-cross calves suitable to the meat processors. A beef-cross calf is worth over £180 more than a dairy bull from the same cow – equivalent to 2.28p/litre.
Choosing high EBV bulls, setting targets and receiving quality colostrum for beef calves is just as important as it is for your heifers, ensuring calves are good weight for age, maximising profits and minimising problems for rearers. Better breeding can add an average of £45 to the value of a beef calf – equivalent to 0.57p/litre. Looking forward we must consider: • reviewing our breeding systems, in order to maximise on areas where possible • expanding the options of using sexed semen and knowing the genetic potential of your herd • beef rearer; we should be utilising grass earlier depending on genetic capabilities or intensive finishing systems for enhanced performance • reducing days to slaughter and maximising meat yields As a farming industry we need to continue to ensure that we are supplying the consumer with a product that delivers a quality experience consistently. The growing interest from retailers for producing efficient beef that delivers margin back to the farmer, whilst maintaining a marketable product, will see genetic selection become a big part of beef production over the next 12 months.
Millie Hendy
With the predicted increase of dairy-cross-beef, we must improve the quality of calf the dairy farmer is producing. Firstly, a poorer calf selected through poor genetics and lack
Calf & Youngstock Specialist Gloucestershire, Avon & Midlands
11
m: 07717 495746 e: millie.hendy@wynnstay.co.uk
@hendycalf1
BEEF CALVES
Beef semen had always been a secondary by-product to the dairy farmer and the growing interest of integrations from retailers and processors has forced dairy farmers to carefully select beef genetics to ensure they are meeting specification, and providing the performance that is required for individual outlets.
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WYNNGUARD A BESPOKE HEALTH PACKAGE EXCLUSIVELY AVAILABLE FROM WYNNSTAY WYNNGUARD is a bespoke health package concept – unique to Wynnstay. It is the ultimate additive for calf health and performance, now available in our range of milks and Start ‘n’ Wean feed, offering your calves total digestive tract protection. The package differs slightly in milks than in the starter feed – working with the calves’ developing digestive system. WYNNGUARD What is it? WYNNGUARD is an additive package, designed to promote calf health and growth, while ensuring performance targets are met. WYNNGUARD does this in two distinct ways by: 1. supporting the calf immune system as it transitions from passive immunity, provided by maternal antibodies (colostrum) to its own achieved immunity 2. protecting the digestive tract from pathogens and promoting rumen development during the transition from milk replacer to solid feed
WYNNGUARD in Calf Milk Replacer Two components: Fibosel and Agrimos Fibosel: Yeast cell wall derived B-glucans
They act as a prebiotic and positively shape the bacterial colonization of the gut by favouring beneficial bacterial species, while also being able to bind and inhibit pathogenic bacteria. Since we know the dam’s colostrum, and the milk produced, is meant to assist the new-born calf with its growth and maturation processes, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that some farmers report performance improvements if colostrum is fed longer than typically recommended, or if transition milk is included into early calf-feeding protocols. It’s this on-farm experience of the dam’s natural protective early milk that has guided the high inclusion of yeast-derived mannan-oligosaccharides (MOS) in WYNNGOLD™ milk replacer. MOS will mimic the action of BOS, aiding the development of beneficial gut bacteria as well as helping to control certain gastrointestinal pathogens such as E. coli, a common cause of neonatal calf diarrhoea. MOS provide alternate binding sites for pathogens – blocking them from colonising and exiting the calf without causing harm.
Macrophages (white blood cells) have receptors which recognise these B-glucans in the digestive system of the calf causing them to increase their activity. Macrophages are involved in a number of reaction chains in an immune response: • directly killing bacteria and viruses which infect gut/lung tissue • B & T cell secretion of non-specific immunoglobulins to bind and kill bacteria • B & T cell-specific anti-body production in response to infection or vaccination The inclusion of a premium source of exposed B-glucans supports the calf as it develops its own immune system without its mother, making it better equipped to deal with an immune challenge.
WYNNGUARD
Agrimos: Yeast cell wall derived mannan-oligosaccharides (MOS) Colostrum and, to a lesser extent, transition milk contain higher amounts of simple sugars, known as bovineoligosaccharides (BOS). Although the presence of these oligosaccharides has been known for some time; the potential benefits for the calf are only now becoming understood.
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WYNNGUARD in Startâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;nâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Wean calf starter Three components: Agrimos, Levucell SC & Butyrate Agrimos: Yeast cell wall-derived mannan-oligosaccharides(MOS) A high inclusion of these prebiotic sticky sugars helps protect the gastrointestinal tract from pathogens during the transition to solid feed. As discussed above, the MOS will act as a prebiotic, favouring beneficial intestinal flora without being used as a substrate for pathogens. It will also bind and block pathogens, limiting pathogenic bacterial (E. coli, salmonella) development within the gastrointestinal tract.
Bad
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Oxygen levels
Redox potential (mV)
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-100 -150 -200 -250
Ideal
-300
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â&#x20AC;˘ wide variety of modes of action
Oxygen Scavenging
-350
Levucell SC: Rumen specific live yeast LEVUCELL SC (Saccharomyces cerevisiae CNCM I-1077) was selected from over 1,000 yeast strains for its beneficial activity in the rumen. With over 100 scientific communications regarding its modes of action and effects, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s one of the most documented ruminant probiotics on the market. These benefits can include, but are not limited to:
FOCUS ON CALVES 2020
Control
WYNNSTAY AGRICULTURE
â&#x20AC;˘ development of healthier gut tissue and enhanced immune responsiveness â&#x20AC;˘ improved feed utilisation
&LOLDWH SURWR]RD
$JH G
S Q &RQWURO Q /(98&(// 6& Figure 1. (Chaucheyras-Durand and Fonty, 2002)
By consuming oxygen in the rumen, it favours faster colonisation of the microflora needed for feed digestion, resulting in increased starter intake and higher average daily gain. Butyrate Butyrate is present in our WYNNGUARD starter package. It is shown to have widespread effects on: â&#x20AC;˘ growth â&#x20AC;˘ digestibility
Butyrate can enhance rumen development - stimulating rumen papillae development. Butyrate can also accelerate small intestinal development, which is critical for nutrient absorption and overall development of calves. It improves feed efficiency and protects calves against stresses from weaning and diarrhoea.
Mark McFarland
WYNNGUARD is only available in Wynnstayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s WYNNGOLD Milk Replacers and Startâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;nâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Wean. If you have any questions about the WYNNGUARD health package please contact a member of our Calf & Youngstock Team
Feed Ingredient Product Manager
Lallemand Animal Nutrition UK Ltd
m: 07827 228161 e: mmcfarland@lallemand.com www.lallemandanimalnutrition.com
13
WYNNGUARD
â&#x20AC;˘ feed efficiency - function in digestive systems - especially mucosal epithelial cells
www.wynnstay.co.uk
PROTEIN IN HEIFER RATIONS There has been some debate recently about the recommended level of protein we should be feeding to calves and heifers, with many of the guidelines coming from the United States on feeding calves high protein starter. It is important that we look closer to home and take the advice on rearing our heifers to suit our system, with the feedstuffs available to us for the animals, we are rearing for longevity not just yield. Calf protein requirements Calves (0-6weeks) should receive the majority of their nutrition from milk; this is what they are most efficient at utilising at this point and are eating limited quantities of starter, therefore, look at providing high quality, digestible milk replacer made up of milk proteins (these are digested most efficiently by the calf) and a high energy supply to ensure protein is used for tissue growth. In the pre-weaning period we are not only looking to grow the calf and develop its rumen, but internal development too. Calves on an elevated plain of pre-weaning nutrition in the first 60 days of life had a positive carry over effect on pre-pubertal follicular growth and that an increased post-weaning plane of nutrition had a positive effect on reproductive tract development (Bruinjé et al., 2019). A good quality starter such as Start ‘n’ wean should be available from birth; offered a small amount at first and refreshed daily to maintain palatability. As with milk replacer, the source of the protein in a starter has an impact of digestibility levels, easily digestible proteins such as Hypro Soya Bean Meal will mean more efficient use and limit waste protein. E. K. Miller-Cushon et al., 2014 found that calves preferred a high energy high protein starter, with calves having highest intakes of Hypro Soya Bean Meal and wheat meal, concluding that to promote early intake of starter feed, ingredients of the starter should include these highly ranked ingredients.
2015). Therefore, it is recommended that calves are fed a high quality 18-20% (Start‘n’Wean or Heifer600) starter feed made up of digestible proteins and a good quality milk replacer, plus ad-lib straw for this period. Heifer protein requirement Post weaning heifers have the capacity to produce their own protein, and the substrates need to be provided to allow them to do this. Protein utilisation is not as efficient as it was a few months ago and N efficiency drops from almost 90% in new-borns to 30% at breeding weight, their growth becomes slower and more sustained. Dry matter intakes increase relative to energy and protein requirements. Protein requirements drop to 2.9g/kg of bodyweight (NRC 2001) and demand for protein significantly drops at 140kg. The NRC (2001) state that 12-14% crude protein in heifer diets is optimal and G. I. Zanton and A. J. Heinrichs (2007) also found that Dietary CP concentrations of 14.2% for weaned heifers maximized gross nitrogen efficiency. Heifer diets should start at 16% in the total diet and reduce to 14% in the first six months. Rearing Nut
Calves have no capacity to produce their own protein, all of the protein requirements must come from the diet. Pre-weaning is the period of highest growth and protein reqirements are going to be the highest here than any other period, 5.5g protein/kg of bodyweight needed to gain 1kg/ day (NRC, 2001). It is also, however, the period of lowest dry matter intake in kg but highest % of BW which brings about the need for a reasonably high protein diet, 18.3% in the TOTAL diet is recommended. Energy is frequently more limiting to growth in calf diets than protein, based on the National Research Council’s calf sub model and considerable recent published research, Progressive Dairy (2020).
Start‘n’ Wean
PROTEIN IN HEIFER RATIONS
Heifer 600
Rearer18
NRC guidelines (2001) state that 18.3% overall is sufficient in pre-weaned calves, when milk replacer protein level is an optimal 22-24%. Zanton and A H Heinrichs, 2007 found that Dietary CP concentrations of 18.9% for milkfed calves were found to maximize gross N efficiency. Additionally, the published research shows that 18% CP (as-fed basis) is optimum for calf starters fed to calves from birth to approximately two months of age. Feeding high levels of protein result in more nitrogen being excreted in the urine in animals fed high protein starter (Albino et al.,
Rearer16
14
Forage
Liveweight 35120kg
120200kg
300kg
400kg
500kg
Hay
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
Average Silage
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
Straw
0-3kg
NA
NA
NA
NA
Hay
NA
3
3.5
4
5
Average Silage
NA
2
1.5
1.5
2
Straw
NA
3
4
5
6
Hay
NA
3
4
4
5
Average Silage
NA
2
1.5
1.5
2
Straw
NA
4.5
5
5.5
6.5
Hay
NA
3
4
4
5
Average Silage
NA
2
2
2
2
Straw
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
WYNNSTAY AGRICULTURE
When protein is oversupplied more Nitrogen is excreted in the urine in animals fed high protein starter, (Albino et al., (2015). In the Zanton & Heinrichs., (2007) trial the groups of heifers consuming five diets of varying protein levels had the same dry matter intake, dry matter digestibility and gained nearly one kilogram per day, the high protein groups did not gain more. The response in gross N efficiency to additional N intake was not different between diet groups; rather, the absolute level obtainable differed. There are also other points to bear in mind, there are several negative environmental impacts to oversupply of protein and with targets for reducing emissions at the forefront of many farming operations. Also to consider are cost implications to feeding excess protein when it is not needed and wasted; consider streamline operations and cutting excess protein. The efficiency of utilisation is also not at its optimal. Furthermore, researchers determined that when feeding high levels of high-protein milk replacer, performance was not improved by feeding more protein in the starter (Progressive Dairy, 2020).
Summary Calf diets: • starter diets of 16-18% crude protein appear to yield the best effects, when on milk and weaning diets should be between 16-18% in the total diet • once calves reach 100-120kg begin to drop protein levels • calf starter should contain Hypro Soya Bean Meal and wheatmeal at a high level to ensure high energy and highly digestible protein sources. Heifer diets: • begin at 16% in the total diet and drop to 14% in the first six months. There is no evidence to suggest any extra protein yields additional benefits • diets don’t need a huge amount of changing once set, however, it is important to keep on top of changes in silage and be mindful of energy density in the overall diet • monitor growth where possible; physical weighing is the gold standard but weigh bands do provide a good alternative • bear in mind when taking information from abroad raw material supply isn’t the same, they have access to certain protein sources that we don’t, however our milk powder portfolio is far superior, bear this in mind when making decisions on milk powder and feed
Jess Yeomans
Calf & Youngstock Specialist Shropshire, Cheshire, Staffordshire & N. Wales
15
m: 07990 584740 e: jess.charlton@wynnstay.co.uk @charltoncalf1
PROTEIN IN HEIFER RATIONS
What happens when we oversupply protein to heifers and are there any benefits?
FOCUS ON CALVES 2020
www.wynnstay.co.uk
HOW WELL DO YOU KNOW YOUR OWN CALF REARING SYSTEM? With the ever-changing markets it is more crucial than ever to know your figures and have your data to hand! As different challenges hit businesses in different ways, there is never “one solution that fits all” so unfortunately this article is more questions than answers. If you don’t currently know the answers for your system I would strongly encourage you to get familiar with them.
WHERE ARE YOU NOW? How many calves are housed in the shed at any one time? Does this meet minimum space requirements for age group? ........................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................................................ What quantity of feed are calves consuming at each stage? Milk powder .................................................................................................................................................... Feed ............................................................................................................................................................... Straw .............................................................................................................................................................. Water .............................................................................................................................................................. How much is each calf costing you to rear to different stages? Milk powder .................................................................................................................................................... Feed ............................................................................................................................................................... Straw .............................................................................................................................................................. Water ..............................................................................................................................................................
YOUR CALF REARING SYSTEM
Labour ............................................................................................................................................................ What additional costs are involved? Machinery ....................................................................................................................................................... Feeding equipment ......................................................................................................................................... Heating water ................................................................................................................................................. Disinfectants and detergents .......................................................................................................................... What are the growth rates at different stages? Pre-weaning ................................................................................................................................................... Post-weaning ................................................................................................................................................. Up to 6 months ............................................................................................................................................... Up to 12 months .............................................................................................................................................
16
WYNNSTAY AGRICULTURE
FOCUS ON CALVES 2020
Are you getting out what you’re putting in? (ie are the animals putting on enough kg’s in relation to the kg’s being fed) ........................................................................................................................................................................ If not, why do you think that is? ......................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................................................ What measures are you taking to improve this? ................................................................................................ ........................................................................................................................................................................ Where do you want to be? What are your goals/targets that you wish to meet within the next 6 - 12 months? ............................................ ........................................................................................................................................................................ ........................................................................................................................................................................ What are your goals/targets that you wish to meet within the next 5 years? ...................................................... ........................................................................................................................................................................ ........................................................................................................................................................................ How are we going to face expected and unexpected challenges? What area has leeway to cut some cost without impacting health/productivity? ................................................. ........................................................................................................................................................................ What area needs focus to improve health and/or productivity of the calves? ...................................................... ........................................................................................................................................................................ What industry price increase/decrease will most affect your business profitability? ............................................. ........................................................................................................................................................................ Is the business going to survive change? Do you have a strategy to combat industry price changes? ............................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................................................ Do you have other sources of income that can support the calf rearing enterprise short-term or long-term? ........................................................................................................................................................................ ........................................................................................................................................................................ Are you willing to adapt to change in markets? ................................................................................................. ........................................................................................................................................................................ Do you have a good team of support around you that you can rely on for help/advice when needed? ................ ........................................................................................................................................................................ The one thing we can be sure of is that challenges are going to hit us and some of these will be unexpected - those who plan ahead and prepare/adapt will survive over those who sit back and wait until they are forced to change. Calf rearing is the focus here, but bear in mind the strongest, most adaptable businesses have data and costings throughout every aspect of their business. We can’t plan for the future and discuss where we would like to be if we don’t know where we are now – it is important that many of these figures are at the front of your mind. They aid in making short and long-term buying and selling decisions and make you a much more resilient operator. Wynnstay’s Calf & Youngstock team focuses on calf nutrition, health and productivity; the success of your business directly impacts the success of ours; we truly understand the importance of having a financially viable system and are happy to help you work out costings if required.
Sammy Howorth
Calf & Youngstock Specialist Lancashire & Cumbria
m: 07810 444948 e: sammy.howorth@wynnstay.co.uk
17
@howorthcalf1
YOUR CALF REARING SYSTEM
Hopefully you have answered as many questions as you can – this task is designed to get you thinking and planning ahead.
www.wynnstay.co.uk
WATER We all know that water is vital for life. It is essential for hydrating calves and for rumen development. There are many reasons why Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve seen a lack of water for calves on farm. Situations vary, sometimes not enough water is provided per pen, other times water which is contaminated, and at times no water at all, especially in very young calves. There is a common misconception that young calves on a milk diet are consuming enough liquid, and clean, fresh, adlib water is not always a priority. This is not the case. In 1984, the Journal of Dairy Science published a study examining the growth, health and starter intake of calves fed free-choice water vs no water throughout the milk feeding period. The researchers found that when no fresh water was offered, starter intake was 31% less and weight gain was reduced by 38%. Rumen development: When a calf drinks water, the water goes into the rumen, as does the starter feed. Water in the rumen provides a medium for ruminal bacteria to live in. To ferment concentrates and forage, rumen bacteria must live in water. Without water ruminal development is slowed.
Clean: Researchers from Utah State University found increased daily gains and weaning weights when water buckets were dumped and rinsed daily compared to weekly or every 14 days. It is helpful to have a divider between the water and starter buckets in the calf pen so that the calf cannot slop back and forth between buckets.
In a recent experiment in UK, grain intakes and growth rates were compared among calves with either ad-lib or no water through weaning. For both calves fed milk at either standard or accelerated rates, the consumption of calf starter grain was about 2.5 times greater with water compared to calves without free-choice water. Calves eating more grain, grew more rapidly â&#x20AC;&#x201C; it is that simple, more water equals more preweaning growth.
Calves are about 70-75% water by body weight and need to consume fresh water in order to maintain normal cellular functions.
WATER
Warm water or cold? Calves actually prefer warm water! Huuskonene et al., 2011 found that water consumption of pre-weaned calves was higher in calves offered warm water compared with those offered cold water. However, the increased water intake of the calves offered warm water did not equate to increased weight gains.
Pre-weaning: On average, calves consume 1L of water per 500g of dry matter intake Post-weaning: Calves should consume 2L of water per 500g of dry matter intake. This ratio should extend through the heifer growing period
Quality: A final note on water for calves is to ensure the quality of the water. Michigan State University Extension recommends periodically testing water sources for bacteria and mineral content. In general, livestock guidelines provided with water analysis are applicable to calves with the exception of sodium. Calves are very sensitive to sodium and do not tolerate excess sodium well. Water that has passed through a water softener can have very high concentrations of sodium and should not be used to mix milk replacer or used as a source of drinking water, unless it has been tested and verified to have low levels of sodium.
Hot weather: Expect water consumption to increase by 33% or more as temperatures reach over 23°C Eimear Diamond
Calf & Youngstock Manager
m: 07881 379008 e: eimear.diamond@wynnstay.co.uk
@diamondcalf1
18
WYNNSTAY AGRICULTURE
FOCUS ON CALVES 2020
& CALF MILKS The ultimate calf milk package • Made using the highest-quality ingredients
• A variety of formulations to meet different rearing objectives
• Nutritionally balanced to meet the demands in the first few weeks of life • Manufactured in Britain
NEW
* Skim based • Bought-in calves * 100% dairy protein • Whey based Oil
25%
Protein
22.5%
Oil
18%
Protein
22%
• Heifers > 800g/day • Whey based Oil
17%
Protein
26%
• Dairy and beef • Skim based Oil
20%
Protein
23%
• Beef or dairy • Whey based
Oil
18%
• High energy • Whey based Oil
Protein
20%
22%
Protein
23%
• High quality • Whey based Oil
20%
Protein
23%
• Dairy and beef • Whey based Oil
19%
Protein
21%
• Heifers > 800g/day • 100% dairy protein • Whey based • Whey protein concentrate Oil
20%
Protein
27%
Oil
25%
All WYNNGOLD Calf Milk Replacers contain 500iu vit E. The new WYNNGUARD WYNNGUARD additive is the ultimate additive for calf health and performance, now available in our range of WYNNGOLD milks and AdVance Start ‘n’ Wean, offering your calves total digestive tract protection. With specific sticky WYNNGUARD into sugars that mimic the action of bovine-oligosaccharides (BOS) found naturally in cow’s colostrum and transition milk, the inclusion of WYNNGUARD our milk formulas means that your calves continue to be supported as the transition from passive to its own achieved immunity.
19
Protein
23%*
www.wynnstay.co.uk
COMPLETING THE OSMOLALITY STORY ELIXIR Energized Calf Milk has been developed with whole milk as the biological reference; the best of whole milk combined with the best of calf milk replacer. Specifically formulated for optimal development, resilience to disease and improved longevity. ELIXIR is a revolution in early life nutrition. Research behind ELIXIR confirmed that further understanding osmolality of calf milk replacer (CMR) can affect gastrointestinal permeability and, therefore, how effectively nutrients are absorbed. Osmolality is defined as the concentration of a solution expressed as the total number of solute particles per kilogram. Whole milk has an osmolality of 300-330 mOsm/ kg with most calf milk replacers typically having an osmolality of 400-600mOsm/kg. This considerable difference between CMR and whole milk leads to the disruption of the osmotic potential in the gut, sub-optimal absorption of nutrients and considerable bouts of diarrhoea. Calf scour (diarrhoea) is the most common disease in young calves, costing the cattle industry ÂŁ11 million each year (AHDB).
Digestive disorders are the main cause of morbidity and mortality in calves
COMPLETING THE OSMOLALITY STORY
Adapted from Urie et al., JDS, 2018a
Many farmers use electrolytes intended for the treatment of dehydration due to diarrhoea. These oral rehydration solutions are used with the intention of rehydrating the calf and reducing the scour incidence. The calf, due to the scour has lost water, energy and minerals which need to be replaced for the calf to recover. Oral electrolyte solutions are administered to replace the sodium lost in diarrhoea with most formulations including sodium, glucose and some alkalising agents. In order to be effective, it is critical that the ratioâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and levels are carefully balanced so as not to upset the osmotic balance even further.
Further understanding of osmolality of CMR can affect gastrointestinal permeability and, therefore, how effectively nutrients are absorbed
20
Most oral rehydration solutions advise that you can feed them in calf milk or water. If fed with a calf milk replacer how is the osmolality affected, when you add an oral rehydration solution? A scientific paper published by Wilms et al. (2019) in the Journal Of Dairy Science discussed that the administration of an oral rehydration powder or solution mix in whole milk or milk replacer has become a common practice in past decades as it allows a substantial reduction of labour associated with the treatment of diarrheic calves.
FOCUS ON CALVES 2020
So, what can we do to tackle this issue in our young calves? Firstly, mixing oral rehydration therapies with milk should be avoided: • milk Replacer can contain high levels of minerals and lactose • oral rehydration solutions mixed with milk replacer > 600 mOsm/kg • increase the risk of osmotic diarrhoea • increased risks of hypernatremia (increase in sodium concentration in the blood) • increased risks of abomasal bloat • may compromise gut integrity Secondly, we have to ensure oral rehydration therapies are only mixed with water in order for them to be an effective treatment for dehydration. Feeding alongside water reduces the osmotic pressure in the gut and ensures we maintain a concentration gradient to enable calves to utilise therapies as efficiently as possible.
However, we need to consider that whole milk and especially milk replacer can already contain high amounts of lactose and minerals. Hypertonicity of milk replacer can be considered as a potential risk factor for calf health. This means that essential nutrients cannot be absorbed across the gut wall because the milk replacer can create a much higher osmotic pressure in the small intestine. Osmosis is defined as the process where molecules of a solvent move from a low concentration to a high concentration through a semi permeable membrane. By increasing osmotic pressure, we halt the process of osmosis. So if we create a hypertonic environment and induce this high osmotic pressure we actually reach an equilibrium in the small intestine where nothing can be absorbed across the gut wall. Add on top of that a hypertonic solution in the form of oral electrolytes to try and tackle dehydration and we end up making the problem considerably worse. This is because the oral electrolyte solution added in to the already hypertonic CMR merely increases the osmotic pressure, further exacerbating the problem at gut level and increasing dehydration.
Dr Laura Tennant
Ruminant Technical Adviser Trouw Nutrition www.trouwnutrition.com
21
COMPLETING THE OSMOLALITY STORY
Ensure oral rehydration therapies are only mixed with water in order for them to be an effective treatment for dehydration
WYNNSTAY AGRICULTURE
www.wynnstay.co.uk
BE CONFIDENT IN A SWITCH TO WHEY FOR YOUNG CALVES If you are looking for the most cost-effective way of rearing pre-weaned youngstock, studies have now confirmed that whey protein concentrate and skim are equivalent sources of dairy protein in milk replacers for high performing young calves fed up to 1,050g of milk solids per day. This latest independent research – confirmed in recent trial (2019) work by AFBI at Hillsborough in Northern Ireland – will be well received by farmers wedded to skim, who at times may be interested in a cost-effective alternative when global skim prices rise. “This new work clearly shows once and for all that the presence of skim – and therefore the clotting effect of casein – is not the fundamental element within a calf milk formula influencing optimum calf growth,” says Volac Research Scientist Dr Jessica Cooke. In the study, there was no significant difference on calf growth between the different milk replacer formulations (see table). The work highlights that if the important milk components are processed correctly, as they are by Wynnstay’s whey calf milk replacer manufacturer Volac, both skim and whey proteins will be highly digestible by the high milk fed calf and will deliver good performance.
Calf feeding regime and notes: • milk replacer (26% crude protein; 16% fat; mixed at 150g/L) fed at 5L/day (day 5-10) • 7L/day (day 11-34), 5L/day (day 35-49), 2 litres/day (day 49-55) • ad-lib calf starter and water available from birth with the addition of chopped straw from day 56 a. scour episode defined as the number of sustained periods over which a calf has had scour (score >2) for which it has received treatment b. pneumonia episode was defined as calf displaying symptom of pneumonia over a sustained period of time for which it received a treatment
6
Importantly though, Dr Cooke stresses that good nutrition and calf performance is linked to more than just the type of dairy protein included in the finished milk formula.
Not all whey is the same. High quality concentrated whey protein (such as Volac’s Imunopro® calf milk base) contains the valuable bioactive components for optimum performance and will give calves the best opportunity for growth and development.
BE CONFIDENT IN A SWITCH TO WHEY
“Important differences in amino acid and fatty acid profiles, amount of lactose, vitamins, minerals and trace elements, processing conditions and overall digestibility also all contribute to calf performance,” she says.
Dairy ingredients are the main source of protein in modern calf milk replacers – these include both skim (casein) and whey.
In summary, this means that when processed under carefully controlled conditions, both skim and whey protein concentrate-based milk replacers can deliver excellent calf performance but, on the other hand, poorly processed milk-derived protein (be it skim or whey) can have very poor digestibility and increase the risk of health issues.
Research clearly shows that calves can digest and utilise milk replacers based on whey as the main dairy protein just as efficiently as skim-based products, despite the whey proteins not forming a clot in the abomasum.
Table 1: Growth and health of calves fed four milk replacers differing in sources of dairy protein (skim milk powder and/or whey protein concentrate) up to 8 weeks of age.
Milk replacers including good quality skim or whey as the main dairy protein can both deliver good calf performance.
Milk replacer composition 66% skim
44% skim
22% skim
0% skim
20
20
20
20
Body weight (kg) at birth
40.8
41.3
41.7
41.5
Body weight (kg) at weaning (day 56)
73.2
74.5
71.9
73.5
Number of calves
KEY POINTS:
The processing method of the dairy protein (for both skim and whey) is fundamental for digestibility and calf performance. Whey protein contains naturally occurring bioactive proteins (e.g. immunoglobulins and lactoferrin) that help support the calf’s immune system and positively influence the young animal’s growth and development.
Daily liveweight gain (kg/day)
Dr Jessica Cooke
Day 0-14
0.38
0.34
0.31
0.4
Day 14-56
0.64
0.66
0.61
0.63
Research Scientist with Volac www.volac.com
Source: AFBI, Hillsborough, Northern Ireland (2019)
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WYNNSTAY AGRICULTURE
FOCUS ON CALVES 2020
H&L CALF EXPERT Q&A As calf and youngstock specialists, we are often discussing different rearing systems and the advances in technology that can help improve your current calf rearing system. We work closely with a network of engineers to ensure the machine is installed in the right position, with alternative feed programmes in order to benefit your rearing system. Millie Hendy spoke to Colin at Rumintechs to answer the most frequently asked questions about the H&L calf expert.
A Q A
Q A Q A
Q A Q A Q A
Q
How many calves per station would you recommend? Each station can feed up to 35 calves if Quadroflex is used. Without Quadroflex a maximum of 25. Pen size can vary and many choose to have more stations and less calves per station to minimise disease pressures.
A Q A
What age range of calves can I put together? Any age range of calves can be shared on a station from a drinking point of view, because bullying is not possible due to the teat valve control. It is important to evaluate on a farm by farm basis, in ideal circumstances there will be a maximum age difference between 2/3 weeks. Consider pen sizes, air space and ventilation and disease status carefully.
Q A
Do I need to use a specific powder? A high-quality milk replacer that contains digestible ingredients will be most suitable for elevated feed plans. It is also essential that the powder can be mixed at 40˚C
What water and electric supplies will I need? A stable clean water supply, pressure not critical but stability is important. Machines are available in either single-phase or three-phase and will require a 16 amp connection. How do I train calves onto the feeder? Training calves onto a machine is easily achieved; when a calf visits the station and is entitled to drink, the machine will mix a ration and pump the mix to the teat valve, if the calf is visiting for the first time a Smartkey enables you to start the milk pump which trickles milk in the calf’s mouth, encouraging it to latch on. Will the calves perform better on a machine? It gives the ability for calves to drink little and often, therefore, they are able to digest more intake and we can increase the quantity and concentration to increase DLWG. Performance will depend on quality of milk replacer, hygiene and environment also.
How do I check calves are drinking? All information about the calves can be found in the Calf, credit and alarm lists showing various data such as; quantity consumed, quantity available, aborted visits and drinking speed. With these combined figures all on one page is often easy to notice a calf is sick before you can notice visually. How often should I change the teats? Teats will generally last the duration of a weaned group depending on group size. Some people prefer having a few teats on the go and changing daily while one is being disinfected. What would you recommend to clean the machine? The machine is best cleaned with the onboard wash system which uses Wynnstay’s whey calf milk and acid detergents (Alkali Kleen & Multi Acid Kleen from Wynnstay).
*WJ Masters and Sons, Frome with their new Calf Expert, installed late 2019. ‘The machine has allowed us to enhance the performance of our calves, with growth rates over 0.9kg from birth. We have also benefitted from the machine’s labour-saving perks. Rather than carrying buckets of milk to calves, we are able to use this time to monitor the calves more closely and concentrate on the health of the calves.’
Colin Bourner
Technical Sales Director Rumitechs Ltd www.rumitechs.co.uk
How far away can the stations be from the machine? The maximum distance a station can be from the mixer is 7.5 meters to avoid cooling of the milk and resistance for the calf to suck. 23
H&L CALF EXPERT Q&A
Q
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WORKSHOPS HIGHLIGHT THE CRITICAL SUCCESS FACTORS FOR EFFECTIVE DAIRY CALF REARING Calf rearers across Wynnstay’s trading area now have an improved understanding of the important nutrition, health and hygiene practices so necessary for calves to hit optimum development and growth targets. Thanks to a series of interactive workshops held earlier this year – organised by the Wynnstay Calf & Youngstock Team which involved a mix of classroom-based discussion and practical on-farm demonstrations – attending farmers left better equipped to improve their dairy calf rearing operations and realise the full performance potential of youngstock entering the adult milking herd. “Whenever we get farmers together to talk about calf rearing, there is always an appetite for information exchange. Everybody participated enthusiastically and I’m sure they all went away eager to make at least one change at home,” says Jessica Yeomans from Wynnstay. A member of the Wynnstay team opened each workshop by highlighting the crucial importance of ensuring newborn calves receive an adequate intake of good quality colostrum, either via a teat or by stomach tubing.
The quantity of colostrum fed is also vital, and the aim should always be to make sure a newborn calf receives at least 10% of its birthweight in colostrum within the first few hours of life. “Calves are born without the antibodies that are essential to prevent disease and colostrum is the sole source of these antibodies. Calves need a first feed of three litres within two hours of birth, followed by another similar sized feed within 6-12 hours of birth,” she says. Asking your vet to blood test calves within a week of birth can also help to indicate whether they have received adequate colostrum.
EFFECTIVE DAIRY CALF REARING
“Timing is everything. As soon as a dairy calf is born, whenever possible, try to harvest the colostrum quickly from the dam so that it can be fed to the newborn calf. This is where many farms struggle. Once you have obtained the colostrum, test its quality using a refractometer or colostrometer to ensure it is good enough to feed to the calf. If it’s not, draw on your stored colostrum that does make the quality grade,” says Jessica.
When it comes to managing the impact of disease, vet Mark Hickinson says that vaccination programmes, good hygiene and husbandry will often tip the health balance in a calf’s favour.
Follow the heifer roadmap Volac representatives highlighted the company’s heifer roadmap, explaining the nutrition dairy calves require to be able to calve down at 24 months of age in a ‘fit not fat’ condition, as well as being primed to achieve their genetic milking performance potential.
Wynnstay calf specialist Jessica Yeomans explains how to use a simple weigh tape to measure calf growth rates.
“Heifers need to be growing at an average rate of 800g per day to produce their first calf at 24 months of age. Any growth setback due to inadequate nutrition or disease will impair optimum development efficiency and delay this recommended first calving age target,” says Volac’s global technical manager Ian Watson.
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WYNNSTAY AGRICULTURE
He stresses though that ‘not all growth is the same’, pointing out that with optimum nutrition calves will grow quickly and cost-effectively during early life, whilst also laying down important udder tissue during this period. “Milk replacer may look expensive on a per tonne basis, but the latest performance-formulated products based on high quality ingredients will payback handsomely if you feed your growing calves enough.” Mr Watson explains that 750g per day of growth can only be achieved if pre-weaned calves receive at least 750g of milk powder per day, with ad-lib starter feed and fresh water always in front of them too.
FOCUS ON CALVES 2020
He stresses that many of the organisms that cause debilitating calf disease problems – such as viruses, bacteria like salmonella and E. coli, and parasites – will thrive in dirty calf accommodation and on soiled feed and water feeding equipment. “Maintaining a high hygiene status is essential if you want to rear healthy calves that grow well. Good hygiene practices along with a sound colostrum feeding protocol in early life – as well as rearing environment improvements and vaccination, where appropriate, to boost a calf’s immune system – will all help to tip the balance in the animal’s favour and make a calf less likely to succumb to any disease challenge,” he says.
“A 45kg calf needs 350g of milk powder just for maintenance (digestion, immune system function and keeping warm). Growth is only achieved when you feed a performanceformulated milk replacer above this level,” he says. The good, the bad and the ugly The Wynnstay Calf & Youngstock Team work very closely with farm vet practices and at the workshops local practitioners highlighted the key disease threats that calves face on a daily basis, as well as the poor husbandry and hygiene practices that can promote problems on any calf unit. “We advise any farmer rearing calves to monitor growth rates and set a mortality target. Once you have done this be honest about your performance against your targets. Remember, if you don’t measure where you are, you can’t manage your business effectively,” says vet Mark Hickinson from Horizon Dairy Vets, who attended one of the events held in Shropshire. Members of Wynnstay Calf & Youngstock Team, including Millie Hendy (left) and Jessica Yeomans (right), are keen to help local cattle farmers improve their calf rearing operations.
For further information contact the Wynnstay Calf & Youngstock Team
www.wynnstay.co.uk/calf_and_youngstock_team
Jess Yeomans
Calf & Youngstock Specialist Shropshire, Cheshire, Staffordshire & N. Wales
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m: 07990 584740 e: jess.charlton@wynnstay.co.uk @charltoncalf1
EFFECTIVE DAIRY CALF REARING
“Asking your vet to carry out post-mortems and doing your own calf-side assessments – for example, using faecal sample diagnostic kits – can help you to identify the presence of some of the most common infectious scour organisms. You can then put in place an appropriate disease management plan, which may involve vaccination programmes, to mitigate the impact of any disease threats on your calf rearing operation.”
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OPTIMAL COLOSTRUM QUALITY AND QUANTITY - IT COMES FROM THE MOTHER! Colostrum is a concentrated source of nutrients, which includes fats, proteins, Immunoglobulins such as Immunoglobulin G (IgG), carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals. Ensuring that a newborn calf gets the correct amount of good quality colostrum as soon as possible after birth is paramount to produce a healthy calf. Measuring colostrum quality The use of a colostrometer or refractometer to measure the amount of immunoglobulins within the colostrum is essential to make sure that the calf receives enough passive immunity from its mother.
OPTIMAL COLOSTRUM QUALITY AND QUANTITY
In some cases, very high yielding fresh cows producing a lot of milk produce less quality colostrum, however, if everything is done environmentally and nutritionally to prepare for this, it shouldn’t be the case. There are lots of things we can do to ensure high quality and high quantity of colostrum is produced from every cow all year round.
Colostrum production The process of colostrum production in the udder begins several weeks before calving and stops abruptly when the calf is born. During this time, large amounts of IgG and other immune factors are selectively transferred from the bloodstream of the cow into colostrum. This starts approximately five weeks prior to calving and is maximised in the last two weeks before calving (Maunsell, 2014), when a cow is in the close-up dry cow group. So, the way that the dry cow is managed can greatly impact the quality of colostrum produced. When thinking about the environmental impact the dry period has on colostrum, stress is one of the biggest factors. Stocking rate, feed availability, temperature, group changes, all have an impact on oxidative stress in the cow, which impacts immunity and possibly the quality of colostrum produced.
The process of colostrum production in the udder begins several weeks before calving and stops abruptly when the calf is born
‘High Quality Colostrum’ can be defined as having at least 50 g/L IgG. This should ideally be farm specific in regard to the diseases that calves are likely to be exposed to. It should also be clean with a low bacterial count and free from any pathogens that can be transferred within it.
Selenium and vitamin E are involved in immune function and may influence colostrum quality when they are deficient. Cows fed a pre-partum diet deficient in selenium and vitamin E produce less colostrum and lower total mass of colostral IgG than cows fed the same diet but supplemented with injections of vitamin E and selenium (Lacetera et al., 1996). It is important to supply adequate vitamins and minerals in the dry period, either through bolus, buckets, or tmr minerals, and consider if your cows get enough year round: speak to your Wynnstay Dairy Specialist regarding a review of your dry cow approach. Wynnstay’s Premier Dry Cow minerals contain optimum levels of vitamins and minerals, and contain IntelliBond® Copper which have been shown to have less impact on vitamin E activity over time than traditional sulphates, so more being available to the cow in times of need (Figure 1).
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WYNNSTAY AGRICULTURE
It is important to supply adequate vitamins and minerals in the dry period, either through bolus, buckets, or tmr minerals
FOCUS ON CALVES 2020
In conclusion, a few key points that should be taken into consideration: 1. Transfer of antibodies (especially IgG) from the blood of the cow into colostrum starts about five weeks prior to calving: if colostrum is poor, look back at what happened in that cow’s dry period. 2. The older the cow, the better the colostrum – but there’s lots of individual variation! On average, first-calf heifer colostrum is lower in volume and IgG concentration than that from older cows. However, many heifers produce very good quality colostrum. Don’t automatically discard heifer colostrum! 3. Colostrum should be tested and only discarded if it is: low quality, bloody, from sick cows, from cows with clinical mastitis, or from cows that are known to be infected with chronic diseases such as Johne’s disease or Mycoplasma.
(Figure 1). Vitamin E loss in feed following the addition of inorganic copper sulphate versus IntelliBond® C in comparison to no additional copper.
5. Dry period length should be at least 3-4 weeks to maximize colostrum quality with adequate vitamins, minerals and protein level in the diet.
Finally, another consideration for feeding the transition cow would be protein level. Inadequate metabolizable protein in the transition cow diet 3-4 weeks pre-calving may have an effect on the quantity of good colostrum produced. Make sure there are adequate levels, aiming for >1,200g MP in the close-up cow diet.
Speak to your Wynnstay Dairy Specialist regarding a review of your dry cow approach https://www.wynnstay.co.uk/dairy_team
Bethany May Dairy Specialist - North Wales m: 07771 740857
e: bethany.may@wynnstay.co.uk
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OPTIMAL COLOSTRUM QUALITY AND QUANTITY
4. Environmental stressors, such as heat stress, may reduce the quality of colostrum, especially in heifers.
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TOO HOT TO HANDLE We are all aware of the detrimental effects that heat stress can have on our cows, and are often quick to run to the cow sheds and collecting yards to put measures in place to mitigate this. How often do we consider what impact heat is having on calves? When temperatures begin to rise, how often are we checking in on calves and dry cows? Dry cows and calves in utero Whilst extensive literature has highlighted the negative consequences of heat stress on lactating and dry dairy cow productivity, health, and reproduction (Bernabucci et al., 2010; Tao and Dahl, 2013), less information is available characterising its effect on the calf. The dry period coincides with late gestation when the foetus grows at the fastest rate and accumulates around 60% of its birth weight (Bauman and Currie, 1980). Consequences of calves exposed to prenatal heat stress: • Weigh less at birth, weaning, and throughout first year of life (in part to a shorter gestation length and retarded foetal growth (Tao et al., 2012; Monteiro et al., 2014, 2016a)
Pre-weaned calves Pre-weaned calves are often not considered for heat stress abatement due to their larger surface/mass ratio and smaller heat loads as a functionally non-ruminant and non-lactating animal (Collier et al., 1982; Broucek et al., 2009; Dado-Senn et al., 2019). However, as we have discussed before, early life experiences can have long-term consequences on future productivity of an animal. The upper critical temperature of the calf thermoneutral zone is anything over 24°C, and the physiological range of calf body temperatures (BT) lies between 38.1 to 39.2°C. When considering the thermoneutral zone, we must be measuring ‘effective ambient temperature’, which is the actual temperature felt by the calf – this can vary greatly from air temperature. Measure the micro climate immediately surrounding the calf. A calf in a clean, dry hutch can have an effective ambient temperature 8-10°C warmer than the air temperature on the day.
• Calves have compromised passive immune transfer, decreased total plasma protein, hematocrit, and impaired cellular immune functions (Tao et al., 2012) • Calves are less likely to survive to their first lactation compared with prenatal cooled calves • If prenatal heat-stressed heifers do reach lactation, they produce approximately 2 to 5 kg/d less milk across the entire first lactation compared with heifers exposed to prenatal cooling, partially attributed to perturbations in mammary gland microstructure and cellular turnover
TOO HOT TO HANDLE
• Heifers exposed to prenatal heat stress had; reduced rectal temperatures, sweating rates and increased skin temperatures when exposed to heat stress as mature lactating cows, compared with prenatally cooled counterparts (Ahmed et al., 2017)
Calves exposed to high ambient temperature and humidity can lead to: • Elevated calf rectal temperatures, skin temperatures, and respiration rates • Reduced ADG and weaning weight compared with calves provided active heat stress abatement or born in winter months (Hill et al., 2011; López et al., 2018). This is in part due to a decline in feed and nutrient intake and an increase in water intake Heat stress in calves will lead to dehydration, reduce feed intake and in turn, can lower the immune system. During periods of high heat stress, nutrients consumed will go towards trying to drive off heat from the calf’s body rather than using the nutrients to grow. As a result, it would not be advisable to reduce milk feed rates during the summer months.
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FOCUS ON CALVES 2020
Measures to combat consequences of heat stress:
1
Ventilation in dry cow shed
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Mechanical ventilation in calf shed
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Adequate water and drinking space in dry cow shed and calf shed/hutch
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Reduce stocking rate
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Shelter over hutches
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Observe calves for; sweating, panting, drinking more and take rectal temperatures
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Keep water fresh and out of direct sunlight
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1
4 2 5
3
4
6
7
2
5
1
1
Reduced movement
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Open-mouthed panting
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Faster breathing rate
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Decreased feed intake
5
Increased water consumption
Eimear Diamond
Calf & Youngstock Manager
m: 07881 379008 e: eimear.diamond@wynnstay.co.uk @diamondcalf1
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TOO HOT TO HANDLE
Important visible signs of heat stress include:
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IMPROVING MANAGEMENT AND PROFIT OF CALF REARING Weighing calves on an electronic scale sounds like good practice – but who has got time for that?! I caught up with a couple of dairy farmers who have bought an electronic scale within the last 12 months to ask their thoughts so far on using it. Neil Brough of Buckabank Farm is milking 350 cows through Lely robots; he rears 175 replacement heifers each year with the black and white bull calves along with beef calves being sold less than 42 days.
Richard Harrington of Birdshill Farm is milking 180 cows on an all-year round calving system. Over the last couple of years Richard has opted to calve some cows to the Wagyu and rear them to weaning to join a Wagyu beef scheme.
I visit the farm monthly and we take weights from a snapshot of calves at this visit (usually anything born within the last week). We then follow this batch through when i am on farm, monitoring growth rates of replacement heifers. The scales are also handy for checking when the bull and beef calves hit their 50kg minimum weight to leave the farm.
The rearer wants the calves to arrive to him weaned and 120kg. Richard has always sent calves based on age and how they look; aiming to have calves weighing 120-150kg based on “educated guesswork”.
IMPROVING MANAGEMENT AND PROFIT OF CALF REARING
The greatest benefit Neil reports from having weight data is that he accurately knows heifer calf growth rates pre and post weaning; meaning he can measure the success of weaning. It also allows him to monitor changes made in the system using quantitative measures. The calf accommodation has recently been upgraded to a new shed with igloos and it has been really rewarding to see the improvement in growth as a result of improved housing. I asked Neil to list the drawbacks of weighing calves, he explained, “without a doubt it is time consuming, but you’ve just got to do it! It’s great that you come each month as it ensures it gets done regularly and takes the number crunching part out of my hands!” “Sometimes we look at a group and think they have done well but once weighed they’re not always as good as I thought – the group are just growing equally as slow!” I guess this highlights the importance of having a quantitative measure rather than personal judgement.
Since investing in a digital weigh platform Richard reports it gives him the extra information to make a much more informed decision. The precise weight allows for more control over when the Wagyu’s leave. Previously there would be calves that looked well but as though they may be under the target weight and, therefore, Richard would have kept them back until the next lot. Animals kept back for another week or two are costing labour time, feed and space every single day. The animals are weighed at the rearers as they walk off the lorry so it gives Richard better control to send a more consistent animal. Calves are now also being weighed at birth and weaning. Although there isn’t much data collected yet, we are confident the process will provide some really good information; we are able to assess the milk stage and post-weaning of calves to assess/monitor and then make management decisions. An additional use for the digital scales on this farm is to weigh the black and white bull calves that must be 50kg before leaving; giving peace of mind the animals sent have met the requirements and he won’t be penalised for any being a couple kg’s underweight.
For help and advice to weigh your calves, contact your local Wynnstay Calf & Youngstock Specialist
Sammy Howorth
Calf & Youngstock Specialist Lancashire & Cumbria
m: 07810 444948 e: sammy.howorth@wynnstay.co.uk
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@howorthcalf1
ENTER TO WIN WYNNSTAY AGRICULTURE
FOCUS ON CALVES 2020
TEST YOUR CALF STOCK JUDGING SKILLS AND WIN A PALLET OF WYNNGOLD™ SUPERNOVA To be in with a chance to WIN A PALLET of our NEW calf milk replacer WYNNGOLD™ SUPERNOVA place the four British blue x calves in the correct order.
NEW
The calves will be placed by Simon Fryar, Commercial Manager at Meadow Quality. Entries will close on the 30th September and the winner will be announced on the 7th October 2020.
A
B
X
Y
To enter please visit
www.wynnstay.co.uk/competitions Calf Competition Prize Draw Terms and Conditions: The closing date for entries is 30th September 2020. • The winner will be chosen at random from all correct • The winner will be announced and contacted directly after 7th October 2020. • You must complete all required information to be entered into the competition. • Only one entry per customer. • There is no entry fee and no purchase necessary to enter this competition. • The winner may be required to take part in promotional activity related to the prize draw. • Employees of Wynnstay Group Plc or subsidiary companies are not permitted to enter the competition. • We accept no responsibility for entries that are lost, delayed or incomplete. • We reserve the right to withdraw or change the competition at any time. • There is no cash alternative to the prize. The prize cannot be transferred or exchanged. • Judge’s decision is final. • By entering the competition you have accepted these terms and conditions.
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