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11/02/2025
Feeding is probably the basis of the rearing technology of any animal. Calves are no exception. It is one of the key factors that influence growth, health and future performance. The speed of weight gain, immunity and overall development of the animal depends on how well-balanced the diet is. So what should the calf diet be like?
Basic principles of calf feeding for rapid weight gain
Feeding of month-old calves plays an important role in their further life. The very first and most important feed is the colostrum. It is the first product that the animal consumes after birth. It is rich in antibodies, proteins, fats, vitamins and minerals that build immunity.
The first feeding usually occurs within an hour or two after birth. The optimal amount of colostrum is 10% of the calf's weight, which is an average of 4-6 liters/day. For the first three days it is the calf's main source of nutrition. Then the colostrum is replaced by full milk or its substitute, which should contain at least 20% protein and 15% fat.
Feeding calves up to one month of age is a very important issue that should not be neglected, because immunity is formed during this period.
It is important to remember that deficiency or excess of nutrients can provoke digestive problems and poor weight gain. What to feed calves for weight gain? Protein is the main “building material” for muscle growth. If they are insufficient, calf development can be stunted. Fats are an indispensable source of energy, which provides thermoregulation. And carbohydrates stimulate the development of intestinal microflora.
And remember: proper feeding of calves up to 3 months of age is not only providing quality feed, but also strict observance of hygiene.
What to feed a calf: ration by age
Each stage of the animal's life requires a different approach to the diet. In the first two weeks calves are fed 3-4 times a day, and then gradually transferred to two meals a day. From the second week dry fodder is added, although liquid feed remains the main diet until 8-10 weeks of age.
After 3 months of age, the main emphasis in feeding shifts to dry, succulent and mixed fodder. Roughage (hay, silage and mixed fodder) is necessary for the rumen, one of the stomach compartments, to develop properly. Calves under three months of age should not be given straw because the stomach is not yet adapted. And access to clean water should be constant - so the food will be digested better.
To summarize, the feeding ration of calves with each new stage of maturation changes and has its own peculiarities. It is important for them to have a regular feeding schedule, clean feeders and drinkers, feed in small portions but often, and the transition between feeds should be gradual.
Supplements and vitamins for healthy calf growth
In order for the calf to grow healthy and gain weight, it is important not only to choose the right diet, but also to supplement it with vitamin and mineral supplements. Minerals are involved in the formation of bones, muscles, nervous system and metabolism. For calves, calcium and phosphorus are the most important ones, which strengthen bones and teeth. The optimal ratio of calcium to phosphorus is considered to be 2:1. These mineral supplements for calves are found in chalk, bone meal, and special feed additives. Sodium and chlorine (rock salt and mineral blocks) have a positive effect on digestion and water-salt balance. Calves should be given special licker salt (not table salt). Magnesium is necessary for the nervous system. And sulfur is important for the formation of proteins and wool.
Micronutrients such as iron, copper, zinc, iodine, selenium prevent anemia, strengthen the coat and skin, prevent thyroid disease and support immunity.
The role of vitamins in the diet of calves is worth mentioning separately. Vitamin A (carrots, pumpkin, fish oil) improves vision and the condition of mucous membranes, D contributes to the formation of bones and helps absorption of calcium and phosphorus; E is responsible for immunity and muscles and is found in oil, wheat germ.
Supplements should be added in the correct doses, because excess can harm the animal.
Mistakes in calf feeding and their consequences
If you neglect the basics of proper calf feeding, the consequences will be inevitable and not fun. Animals will not receive enough nutrients, and from this will become weaker, with delays in development.
For example, protein deficiency in a calf will manifest itself through slow growth and weight gain, weakened immunity, and hair loss. To avoid this, the diet should include mixed fodder with soybean and rapeseed meal, alfalfa.
The same goes for fats, which are responsible for energy in the body. Animals deficient in fats may have low body temperature, low blood glucose levels. Cereals (corn, barley) and succulent fodder are rich in fats.
Other common mistakes in calf feeding include irregular food intake, overfeeding or insufficient portions, incorrect milk temperature, abrupt transition from milk to roughage.
The correct calf feeding ration is not only the quantity of food, but also, importantly, its quality, regimen and compliance with age requirements. Remember this!
11/02/2025
