Feeding Strategies for Young Stock
Introduction
The period from 6 months to maturity is crucial for young cattle. During this time, calves transition from milk-based diets to solid feeds. Proper feeding practices can significantly impact their growth rates and future productivity. According to research, calves should reach about 70-75% of their mature weight by the time they reach puberty.
Importance of Nutrition
Nutrition plays a vital role in the development of young stock. A well-balanced diet supports skeletal growth and prepares heifers for breeding. Insufficient nutrition can lead to delayed maturity and reduced productivity later in life.
Nutritional Requirements
Transitioning from Milk to Solid Feed
Colostrum Feeding:
Calves need colostrum within the first few hours after birth. It contains essential antibodies that help build their immune system. Aim for at least 4 liters of high-quality colostrum within the first 6 hours.
Milk Replacer:
After colostrum, calves should receive whole milk or a milk replacer. This phase typically lasts until they are about 8 weeks old. Gradually decrease milk intake as solid feed consumption increases.
Solid Feed Introduction
Starting at around 2 weeks of age, introduce high-quality calf starter feeds. These starters should be rich in protein and energy to promote rapid growth. By 6 months, calves should primarily consume solid feeds.
Key Components of Diet
- Concentrates:
Concentrates are crucial for promoting growth and rumen development. High-starch concentrates enhance feed intake and rumen efficiency. - Forage:
Good quality hay should be available at all times. It aids in digestion and supports rumen health. - Water:
Fresh water must be accessible at all times to ensure proper hydration and digestion.
Feeding Schedule
A structured feeding schedule helps ensure that young stock receive adequate nutrition throughout their growth phases. Below is a general guideline for feeding young stock from weaning to maturity:
| Age (Months) | Concentrates (kg/day) | Hay (kg/day) | Notes |
| 0-2 | 1-2 | — | Colostrum only |
| 2-3 | 1-2 | Free choice | Start introducing concentrates gradually |
| 4 | 3-4 | Free choice | Monitor health; adjust feed as needed |
| 5 | 5-6 | Free choice | Ensure adequate water supply |
| 6-12 | 6-8 | Decrease as grain increases | Transition to growing rations |
Feeding Practices
High-Starch Concentrates
Research indicates that starch plays a significant role in the diets of dairy cows at all life stages. For optimal rumen development, ensure that concentrates contain about 25-30% starch content 1.
Forage Quality
Provide high-quality forage that is free of mold and contaminants. Forage quality impacts overall health and growth rates 2.
Health Management Practices
Regular Health Checks
Regular health checks are essential to monitor the growth and well-being of young stock. Look out for signs of illness or nutritional deficiencies 3.
Deworming and Vaccination
Implement a deworming schedule as well as vaccinations according to veterinary recommendations. This helps prevent diseases that can hinder growth 4.
Monitoring Growth Rates
Keep track of weight gain regularly to ensure that calves meet their growth targets. Aim for heifers to reach about 55% of their expected calving weight by breeding age (around 13-15 months) 5.
Conclusion
Feeding young stock from 6 months to maturity requires careful planning and execution. By focusing on balanced nutrition, proper feeding schedules, and health management practices, farmers can optimize the growth and productivity of their cattle. This investment in early life stages pays off significantly in terms of future milk production and overall herd health.
For more detailed information on calf nutrition, visit NDDB or read about the importance of starch in youngstock diets on ForFarmers.
More from Livestock Production and Management:
https://wiseias.com/feeding-goats-for-milk-production/
https://wiseias.com/feeding-pregnant-ewes/
https://wiseias.com/feeding-managing-livestock-natural-disasters/
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