For a newborn calf, colostrum isn’t just important—it’s critical. This first milk from the mother provides essential antibodies that help calves build their immune systems and fight off disease. Without it, their health and well-being can be compromised for the rest of their lives. A calf that doesn’t receive colostrum has a significantly higher risk of infections and diseases and may even have a shorter lifespan. But what happens when a calf doesn’t get colostrum from its mother? Whether it’s because the dam can’t produce enough or the calf isn’t nursing, you’ll need a backup plan to give that calf the best start possible.
Let’s be honest—calving doesn’t always go smoothly. Ideally, every calf would pop up, latch onto mom, and get all the colostrum they need within hours of birth. Unfortunately, we don’t live in a perfect world. Some calves are slow to nurse, others might be born to a cow with little or no milk, and sometimes you’ve got to step in to help. This situation is where colostrum replacers or supplements come into play. Still, with so many options and methods, figuring out what to do can feel overwhelming.
If you need to intervene, time is of the essence. A calf’s ability to absorb antibodies from colostrum drops quickly, and you have about 4 hours to ensure they get what they need. Whether you’re using natural colostrum or a replacer, delivering it effectively during this window is critical. The good news? With some know-how and preparation, you can help your calves get off to the right start, even in less-than-ideal situations. Here are five practical tips to guide you when it’s time to roll up your sleeves and assist.
