MoleValley Calf - Mole Valley Farmers

2012 CALF MANAGEMENT GUIDE | MOLE VALLEY FARMERS 

MANAGEMENTT 2012 

NEW BORN CALVES 

COLOSTRUM 

MANAGEMENT 

NUTRITIONAL NEEDS 

REARING REGIMES 

CALF FEEDING 

CALVING 

CHECKLIST 

MILK REPLACERS 

DRY FEEDS 

HOUSING 

REQUIREMENTS 

HYGIENE MATTERS 

HEALTH AND 

WELFARE 

MVF CONTACTS 

In this issue 

www.molevalleyfarmers.com 

EDITION 

D 

Management of calves from birth onwards • colostrum management • feeding practices 

equipment for feeding • housing • husbandry • health and welfare 

for healthy calves 

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2 

MOLE VALLEY FARMERS | CALF MANAGEMENT GUIDE 2012 

Introduction 

Adam May, Agricultural Commercial Manager 

07818 017116 

The fi rst few months in a calves’ life will 

determine whether it will deliver its full 

genetic potential, or fall some way short, due 

to poor feed or disease. Over recent years, research has shown 

how much infl uence a good diet and health plan can have on 

the lifetime performance of both dairy and beef cattle. 

Every aspect in the calf rearing process needs to be carefully planned 

and implemented, from ensuring it gets a good feed of colostrum at 

birth, through the milk feed period, to the transition to solid feed, not to 

mention the environment and health planning needed if the best results 

are to be achieved. 

In this supplement we have brought together a comprehensive array of 

articles, submitted by some of the best experts in the fi eld, as well as 

utilising the expertise we have within the company. 

We are grateful to Dr Jessica Cooke, Young Animal Technical Specialist and 

Will Sinclair, Calf Specialist, from Volac International, Tim Porter MRCVS 

from Westpoint Vets and our own Patrick Traill for the support they have 

given us in the preparation of this publication. 

We also have articles of housing, health planning, feeding guides, and 

many others, which are important to the wellbeing of the young calf. 

The damage which can be done to the young calf’s internal organs is 

often underestimated and can be irreparable, which results in an underperforming 

adult animal. 

We hope you fi nd the contents interesting and informative. If you need any 

further advice or information, please contact me. 

Colostrum management tips 

Colostrum of the right quality and quantity, given to the calf at the right 

time is the cornerstone of success for any calf rearing enterprise. It 

supplies both essential nutrients and antibodies. 

A new-born calf has no protective 

antibodies to resist disease challenges 

and these can only be absorbed via 

colostrum. Poor health, low growth rates 

and high mortality are most often seen 

in calves that have received inadequate 

colostrum. The following information 

states the 4 golden rules (4 Q’s) when 

feeding colostrum: 

1. Quality 

Feed calves with good quality colostrum, 

ideally from mature cows. Colostrum 

quality varies widely from cow to 

cow. Colostrum from cows in their 

fi rst lactation usually contains fewer 

antibodies to help protect against 

diseases as these animals have not 

yet been exposed to a wide range of 

pathogens. 

Good quality colostrum may be frozen for 

future use, when suitable colostrum is 

not available from the dam. Alternatively, 

if considering the use of a commercial 

alternative (for example Volac 

Volostrum), ensure that the product has 

been independently tested and is proven 

to be successful. 

It is diffi cult to visually detect if 

colostrum contains suffi cient antibodies. 

It is therefore recommended that 

colostrum quality is tested using 

a colostrometer, which is a simple 

apparatus that can be used on farm to 

give an indication of the quality. 

2. Quantity 

Feed a minimum of 3 litres (6 pints) in 

the fi rst six hours, split into two feeds if 

necessary. A further 3 litres should be fed 

within 12 hours. A calf receiving at least 

3 litres of good quality colostrum in the 

fi rst six hours of life will have received 

suffi cient antibodies. Remember, a calf 

requires approximately 20 minutes of 

continuous suckling to consume 3 litres of 

milk from the cow. 

MVF Farmer Shareholder Scheme 

If you see this symbol, it means the 

product qualifes for MVF Farmer 

Shareholder benefits. 

To find out more about an MVF 

Farmer Shareholder account call 

our Membership Team on 

01769 573431. 

3. Quickly 

Feed colostrum as soon as possible 

after birth and at latest within the 

fi rst six hours. At birth, the calf gut 

is permeable, which means that it can 

absorb the large antibody molecules 

directly into its bloodstream. Over the 

fi rst 24 hours the gut rapidly ‘closes’ 

and these molecules can no longer 

be absorbed. For good immunity, low 

mortality and future health, it is essential 

that the calf absorbs suffi cient antibodies 

as soon as possible after birth before the 

gut ‘closes’. 

Feeding colostrum for at least the fi rst 

three days of life has been shown to have 

other benefi ts as it encourages rapid gut 

development and lays a solid foundation 

for fast effi cient healthy growth. 

4. Quietly 

Research has proven that calves that are 

stressed when receiving colostrum will 

not absorb the protective antibodies as 

effi ciently as those that are calm. This 

means that a stressed calf would require 

more colostrum in order to achieve the 

same level of immunity as a calf which 

was not stressed.

New born calves - 

meeting their nutrient 

requirements 

Article by 

Dr Jessica Cooke, 

Young Animal 

Technical Specialist, 

Volac International 

After colostrum, the next critical feed for 

the new-born calf is milk, writes Volac’s 

Dr Jessica Cooke. New born calves, like 

infants, have a requirement for milk in their 

diet until such time as their digestive system 

matures and they can digest more complex 

feeds. 

Whilst the digestive system of the calf develops 

relatively quickly, the abomasum (fourth stomach), 

still plays the most signifi cant role in digestion for at 

least the fi rst three weeks of life. During this period, 

milk bypasses the largely non-functioning rumen and 

goes straight into the abomasum where acids and 

enzymes are secreted to aid digestion. See Fig 1. 

Whatever is fed, the physiology of the calf dictates 

that, for the fi rst three weeks of life, it is almost 

entirely dependent on the liquid milk feed to supply 

the nutrients it needs to support health and growth. 

Supplying energy 

Young calves require energy for normal body 

functions such as digestion, respiration and heat 

production as well as for growth, and the energy 

available to the calf is directly proportionate to the 

supply of milk or milk replacer during the fi rst three 

weeks. 

So, which source of energy is best? Although milk 

replacers only contain 14% to 20% fat, compared 

Fig 1: Development of the four compartments of the calf’s stomach area 


Calf nutrition 

with whole milk at 30% to 32% fat, the lactose content in milk also provides 

energy. In total, the proportion of energy supplied by the fat and lactose is 

similar for whole milk, skim or whey based milk replacers - over 72%, so all 

can provide valuable energy to the calf. See Fig 2. 

Fig 2: Relative proportion of energy supplied by different 

components in milk or milk replacer. 

By supplying more lactose and less fat compared with whole milk, calf milk 

replacers typically stimulate earlier intake of solid feed which encourages 

earlier rumen development. Feeding whey based milk replacers, which do 

not form a clot in the abomasum, can increase early solid feed intake in 

comparison with high quality skim based milks. 

The fat in whole milk is highly digestible, and well formulated milk replacers 

contain a blend of fat sources which are designed to be well digested by 

the calf and provide energy and nutrients to help maintain good health 

and growth. The processing of the 

fats in milk replacers for example 

by homogenisation, also has a very 

signifi cant impact on the energy 

delivered to the calf. 

There are occasions when the calf’s 

energy requirements are higher, for 

example when targeting higher growth 

rates, or in periods of cold weather 

when the calf needs more energy to 

maintain growth. Energy intake can be 

improved in various ways but, as shown 

in Table 1, increasing the oil content of 

the milk replacer from 16% to 20% has a 

negligible effect compared with simply 

feeding more of the same. 

continued on page 4 

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continued from page 3 

The ash content of a milk replacer contributes 

nothing to the energy supply, so the ideal ash 

content is similar to that found in cows’ milk at 

approximately 6%. 

Supplying proteins 

Whole milk is 26% to 27% protein, while milk 

replacers typically contain 20% to 27% protein. 

Calves have a requirement for protein, a minimum 

of 20% in the diet, but they also require specifi c 

Table 1: Daily energy intake and the effect 

of feeding a low vs high oil milk replacer, or 

feeding different volumes or concentrations 

Energy 

supplied/calf 

per day (MJ) 

16% oil 

22% protein 

20% oil 

22% protein 

4 litres - 12.5% 7.5 7.8 

4 litres - 15% 11.2 11.7 

5 litres - 12.5% 11.7 12.2 

amino acids - the building blocks of protein. The 

total quantity and balance of amino acids, not crude 

protein %, are the keys to muscle development and 

calf growth, but only the protein % is declared on 

the product label so it is impossible to judge likely 

animal performance from reading the label alone. 

Overall - should I feed my calf whole 

milk or milk replacer? 

Whole milk can provide a high level of energy and 

protein (amino acids), to the calf but it can also: 

• transmit bacteria which infect the calf, 

including Johne’s, Salmonella, E.Coli 

• vary in nature which can lead to calf 

performance / health issues 

• ‘cost’ more than milk replacer. Milk is currently 

worth on average 29p/l if sold, compared with 

buying a milk replacer, which dependent on the 

quality purchased and mixing rates used can cost 

between 15p to 23p/l 

• result in delayed intake of solid feed, which can 

delay the age of successful weaning or result in 

post-weaning growth checks 

High quality calf milk replacers have to be 

purchased, but can provide a number of benefi ts 

including: 

• biosecurity – made using pasteurised milk 

• cheaper to feed per litre than whole milk 

• convenient and easy to use, and always available 

• lower fat, higher lactose – encouraging solid 

feed intake before and after weaning 

• formulated to provide a consistent supply of 

energy, protein, vitamins and trace elements 

that the calf requires 

Five ‘must haves’ when 

purchasing a milk replacer 

• Minimum of 20% protein declared 

• Maximum of 9% ash declared 

• Minimum 0.8% calcium 

• A trusted supplier 

• Previous calf performance and calf 

bloom give the best guarantee for the 

milk replacer’s quality 

why feed 

calf milk 

replacer? 

Advantages of 

feeding calf 

milk replacer 

More economic 

Continuity of 

nutrition 

Higher minerals 

and vitamins 

Better 

performance 

Reduced disease 

risk 

Accurate mixing 

Can be fed once 

a day 

Quicker weaning 

Economics of 

feeding calf 

milk replacer 

Milk price 

= 27.5ppl 

Powder price 

= 17.5ppl 

Cost difference = 

10ppl 

Milk intake per calf 

= 168 litres 

Cost difference 

per calf 

= £16.80


Rearing regimes Feeding equipment 

Bucket feeding (once or twice a day) 

Ideal for rearing a small number of calves at any one time. Allows 

good control over volume fed, and good supervision of animals, but 

is very labour intensive and calf growth may be limited. 

Non automated cold or warm ad-lib feeding 

Ideal for rearing small groups of calves. Low cost set up, with 

a lower labour requirement and greater fl exibility than bucket 

feeding. Calves grow well, but increased milk intake results in 

higher rearing costs and wetter bedding. Stockmanship skills need 

to be high as opportunity for ‘compulsory’ supervision is reduced. 

Automatic machine feeding 

Suitable system for larger farms. Allows 24 hours milk 

consumption, with low routine labour requirements, but increased 

set up costs (feeder hire or purchase). Maximises early calf growth 

but greater milk intake leads to increased urine production and 

wetter bedding. This system requires a high level of hygiene and 

good weaning management skills to allow maximum intake of 

starter pre-weaning. 

Computer controlled feeding 

Ideal for larger farms (over 100 cows). Allows ad-lib performance 

with the cost control of a restricted system. Each individual calf 

can be fed according to a pre-set programme to meet individual 

needs. The daily action list highlights behaviour changes and calves 

that might require attention. As weaning approaches, milk intake 

can be automatically reduced which encourages solid feed intake 

– this will minimise set-backs post weaning. High stockmanship 

standards are the key to success, and good housing (drainage and 

ventilation) is essential. 

Labour costs of feeding from 

birth to weaning 

Twice a day bucket feeding 

Once a day bucket feeding 

Cold ad-lib feeding 

Automatic feeding 

Computer controlled feeding 

115 mins 

£13.80 

70 mins 

£8.40 

40 mins 

£4.80 

20 mins 

£2.40 

20 mins 

£2.40 

Teat calf feeder 


These feeders are designed for fast, effi cient group feeding of 

calves whilst maintaining an individual approach and promoting 

improved digestion of milk. Easy to clean and simple to maintain. 

Come complete with teats. 

Milk mixer 

90 and 200 litre capacity milk mixers are 

available to hire. 

Volac Mini-Mum warm milk calf 

feeder 

The Volac Mini-Mum feeder provides 

warm ad-lib feeding for groups of 4 to 6 calves. It is a robust 

moulded plastic feeder which is easy to operate and clean. Most 

importantly it will save you valuable time during the most labour 

intensive periods of the year, whilst allowing your calves to 

maximise their growth potential. 

Automatic feeder 

Automatically mixes and supplies warm milk replacer for up to 50 

calves, dramatically reducing the ‘man hours’ required for mixing 

milk and feeding calves, although a high degree of management 

skill is still essential. Automatic feeders are available for hire or 

purchase. 

Computerised calf feeders 

As featured on page 6, computerised calf feeders are designed to 

automatically mix milk (milk replacer or whole milk) and to control 

the feeding of each individually identifi ed calf, by restricting them 

to small portions of milk throughout the day. 

CONTACT KATIE GARDNER, CALF SPECIALIST, ON 

07539 226623 

Wydale 

twin calf bucket 

Wydale 

5 teat calf feeder 

Part of the range of Wydale calf 

feeders 

For more information on feeders 

contact your local branch or buy online 

at www.molevalleyfarmers.com 

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Machine feeding 

Feeding calves on machines has been 

around for 40 years, initially using ad-lib 

feeders and, for some 20 years now, feeders 

controlled by a computer. 

Although ad-lib feeders will save labour, and give 

fl exibility in time required to manage calves, they 

have serious drawbacks when trying to control 

costs and ensure that enough concentrate is being 

consumed at weaning. 

Controlling costs whilst at the same time as 

achieving higher growth rates, without risk of 

digestive upset is where the computer feeder really 

comes into its own. Feed plans set in the computer 

are designed to feed calves carefully measured 

quantity’s several times a day, thereby allowing 

higher rates of feeding and ensuring that higher 

growth rate targets are met, without causing upsets, 

whilst at the same time saving labour. 

The latest computer feeder from Volac International, 

the Forster Technik Vario Plus, offers the opportunity 

to manage your calf rearing enterprise, both in 

terms of feed and labour costs. Management of 

the calf is very simple, as all relevant feeding 

information is available on an easy to use hand held 

terminal. Minute by minute details are given on 

the amount of milk available, how much has been 

consumed, and what was the relevant drinking 

speed of the calf, and any breaks to feeding the 

calf. This information is displayed along with the 

details from the day before, so that you can make 

an accurate judgement on a calf’s wellbeing on that 

particular day. Warning lists are given for deviations 

from a calf’s normal feeding pattern, alerting the 

stockperson to potential problems. 

Forster Technik Vario + 

There are many key features to the Vario Plus feeder, with one of the most 

signifi cant being the Automatic calibration scales, where water and powder 

are weighed regularly throughout the day as the milk is being prepared, to 

ensure that the correct concentration is dispensed according to the feed plan. 

Automatic wash functions, not only keep the feeder clean, but also help to 

reduces labour. 

The Vario Plus feeder will comfortably feed 30 calves per feed-station, and is 

capable of feeding 120 calves on 4 stations. Feed training pump will assist in 

getting calves to drink from teat, and most will only require taking to the teat 

once or twice before they will feed themselves. 

There are many benefi ts to rearing calves on computer feeders, where they are 

in social groups with room to roam, plus there is not the same labour demand in 

washing large numbers of pen sides or feeding equipment. For more information 

on benefi ts of computer feeders. 

CONTACT KATIE GARDNER, CALF SPECIALIST 

ON 07539 226623 

Help from a computerised calf feeder 

The need for larger numbers of stock on both dairy and beef farms, are putting more 

pressures on the valuable resource of labour. 

The most common reason for failing to meet specifi c targets or objectives is that there is 

never enough time. No other system typifi es this more than the calf rearing enterprise. This 

is true for both dairy farms who would like to be achieving earlier calving dates with their 

heifers, or beef farmers wanting to grow calves faster to reduce days to slaughter, or days in 

the rearing unit in the case of the specialist calf rearer. 

For decades now, the most common rearing system used, is twice a day feeding using 

buckets, or teat feeders. However, there are several drawbacks with this approach. Firstly, 

there is the need to have regular feeding times, irrespective of what 

other demands there are for the stockpersons time. Also with the need 

to grow animals faster, it is challenging to ensure that we can get more 

milk and feed into the calf, without causing any digestive upsets. Finally, 

the need to wash a large number of utensils. Thankfully, help is at hand 

in the form of the computerised calf feeder. 

Will Sinclair, Volac International

Calving and looking after young calves 

All you need from Mole Valley Farmers 

Give your youngstock the best start in Life 

The use of hutches has become a proven method of rearing calves. 

Preventing pneumonia and scours at an early age is essential to an 

animals’ future productivity. Animals with damaged lungs will not achieve 

their lifetime milk yield potential and beef animals will take longer to 

fi nish. 

Calves reared outdoors in hutches, thrive on individual attention and 

receive individual feeds which can be monitored more effectively. Natural 

outdoor ventilation eliminates the spread of viruses and infections such as 

pneumonia and scour. 

Whether you are rearing dairy herd replacements, embryos worth 

thousands of pounds or beef calves, you will benefi t from bigger, healthier 

calves at weaning, reducing veterinary/drug costs and calf mortality by 

using hutches. 

Calving checklist 

FEEDING 

MEDICAL 

Feeders and teats 

Jug and whisk 

Buckets 

Calf colostrum 

Milk replacer 

Stomach tube 

Syringes 

Needles / sharps containers 

Calcium bolus/ Botonic calcium 

Pessaries 

Surgical scrub 

Obstetrical gel 

Roto Corona syringes 

Iodine 

Calciject 

Glucose 

EQUIPMENT / SUNDRIES 

Vink calving jack 

Ropes / rope handles 

Apron 

Disinfectant 

Dehorner and gas 

Ear tags 

Arm length gloves 

Products to consider .... 

Collate whole 

colostrum 

for calves 

228g 

Net Tex 

Calf Stomach 

Tube 

Ritchey Superlube 

thick gel 

Horn'Up 

rechargeable 

dehorner 

Iodine 10% BP 

2.5L 


Equipment 

Calf hutches available at Mole Valley Farmers, 

contact your local branch for more information 

and availability details. 

Iodine BP 10% 

pump spray 

500ml 

Express 

gas dehorner 

Volac V 

calf colos colostrum 

450g 

Botonic calcium gun 

Agrimin 24.7 calcium 

bolus 4 pack 

Botonic calcium 

4 x 345g tubes 

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Six point plan for feeding a milk replacer 

1. Quality 

Quality is vital at this early stage. Invest in a good quality 

milk replacer based on milk proteins (protein 20-26%, 

fat 16-20%, ash

Milk replacers from Mole Valley Farmers 

Mole Valley Farmers offer a comprehensive and cost 

effective range of milk replacers for all calf rearing 

systems 

There are a numerous rearing systems, each requiring different 

types of powder to in order to maximise growth rates whilst 

providing value for money 

All the following powders are suitable for feeding 

in bucket, teat feeders and some machines, special 

machine grade powders are available upon request. 

All products are available for direct delivery to farm. 

Multistart 

Mole Valley Farmers most popular 

calf milk replacer, this high quality, 

22% protein, whey based calf milk 

replacer is suitable to use in once 

or twice daily restricted feeding 

systems, ad-lib and computerised 

automatic feeders that do not 

require a free-fl ow powder and cold 

ad-lib feeding 

Challenger 35% Skim 

A high quality, 35% skim calf milk 

replacer. Suitable for use in once 

or twice daily restricted feeding 

systems, ad-lib and computerised 

automatic feeders that do not 

require a free-fl ow powder and 

cold ad-lib feeding 

Available at selected branches 

Maverick Once a Day mix 

This product is designed for once 

a day feeding only, with the 

advantage of being formulated for 

mixing with water and / or whole 

milk, giving the fl exibility to utilise 

waste milk as and when available 

on farm 

Optimum 

A precisely formulated milk 

replacer containing specially 

selected dairy products, 

highly digestible oils, 

vegetable proteins, vitamins 

and minerals designed to 

satisfy the requirements of 

fast-growing calves 


A milk powder designed to improve 

feed effi ciency and livewieight 

gain by improving the health status 

of the calf. This product contains 

Actonor, specially designed to 

provide all the benefi ts of skimmed 

milk powders at a more economic 

price 

Heiferlac 

This product has been developed 

specifi cally for the modern dairy 

heifer calf and offers very high levels 

of pure dairy protein, lactose and a 

specially selected blend of vegetable 

oils; heiferlac is ideal for once and 

twice a day feeding, cold ad-lib and 

some ad-lib systems requiring an 

instant mixing powder 

Blossom 

Formulated to achieve the growth 

rates needed for maximum lifetime 

performance of both dairy and 

beef calves. This powder has been 

instantised for easier mixing and is 

available for machines or bucket 

mixing. 

Enerlac 

This powder has been designed to 

offer a high quality cost effective 

milk powder that is suitable for 

beef and traditional dairy rearing 

systems, available for machines of 

bucket mixing 

Zelmo Blue is an organic whey based calf 

milk replacer with 23% protein and 18% oil. 

Made using pure organic dairy proteins to 

promote high digestibility. It is approved as 

an organic feed by the Soil Association and 

for use by the major organic certifi cation 

bodies. Suitable for use in all bucket and 

computerised feeder rearing systems and in 

some automatic calf feeders. 


Golden Maverick Triple A 

Zelmo Blue “Organic” 

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Compound feeds from Mole Valley Farmers 

PrimeCalf Rearer trials 

Recent improvements in the formulation of Mole 

Valley Feed Solutions compound feed for calves will 

result in signifi cant fi nancial benefi ts for professional 

calf producers. 

It is widely recognised that successful calf rearing remains a 

cornerstone for profi table, high performance, beef and dairy 

systems. The Mole Valley Feed Solutions research and development 

programme has recently invested in this area. 

A review of all the latest available information, followed by a 

large scale study at a leading feed evaluation unit in Norfolk has 

provided very valuable new physical and fi nancial performance 

data. 

Nutrition 

Mole Valley Feed Solutions calf feeds are formulated to include 

several unique components. These include: 

• High starch content and a good level of digestible fi bre 

to encourage rapid rumen development. 

• High level of digestible undegradable protein to 

encourage lean tissue growth. 

• Specifi c calf mineral, vitamin and trace element 

package to maximise growth and help minimise animal 

health issues. 

The use of a very limited range of palatable ingredients is also a 

key requirement. Typical ingredients include: wheat, molassed 

sugar beet pulp, wheatfeed, barley, beans, maize products, rape, 

soya, molasses and minerals and vitamins. 

Calf trial data 

A recent trial involved an evaluation of our new improved, 

successful and versatile product PrimeCalf Rearer. The product was 

fed in nut form and the calves were fed for a ten week period. 

The results of the trial, compared with typical industry system 

data (reference John Nix) and a fi nancial evaluation are 

summarised in Table 1. 

All MVF compound feeds qualify in the 

Farmer Shareholder rebate scheme. 

For more information on how to become a 

MVF Farmer Shareholder, call 01769 573431 

Mole Valley Feed Solutions Dry Calf Feeds 

The calves fed the unique PrimeCalf Rearer recorded a very 

credible gain of 1.0kg per day. This is approximately 25% greater 

than the ‘industry standard’. The trial illustrates that in general 

there is an opportunity to improve performance and margins 

despite a higher feed cost per tonne. 

Customer feedback includes the following comments: 

“The beauty of the product is the consistent performance.” 

“Any post weaning check was minimal.” 

“The calves really performed on this diet.” 

Table 1 

Physical performance 

Traditional 

system 

Specialist 

system 

PrimeCalf 

Rearer 

Start weight (kg) 50 56 

End weight (kg) 115 125 

Liveweight gain (kg) 65 69 

Feeding period (days) 84 69 

DLWG (kg) 0.8 1.0 

Dry feed (kg) 160 138 

Milk powder (kg) 25 30 

Financial performance 

Value of gain* (£) 114 121 

Dry feed cost (£/T) 245 250 

Dry feed cost (£/head) 39 35 

Milk powder cost (£/T) 1350 1350 

Milk powder cost (£/head) 34 41 

Margin (£/head) 41 46 

* 175p per kg liveweight 

The Mole Valley Feed Solutions latest range of dry calf feeds is summarised in the table below. Product selection will depend on 

system and the target level of performance. Full details on formulations and prices for the new season are available now. 

Product Physical Form Protein (%) System Key Feature 

PrimeCalf Starter Nut and Pellet 18 

PrimeCalf Rearer Nut 17 

Specialist, high 

performance 

Calf and heifer single 

feed 

Fibre, starch and 

protein type 

Mineral package 

PrimeCalf Coarse Coarse 18 Traditional Flaked ingredients

Dry feed management 

Background 

Numerous studies have examined the nutrition of the calf. Nutrient requirements 

have been established and models created to help design the ‘ideal’ calf starter 

feed. Recent initiatives have included work to investigate the impact of the 

nutrition of the calf on the long term production of milk and lean meat in the 

adult animal. 

Product Selection 

Essential requirements and key features of a specialist dry calf feed are 

summarised as follows: 

Requirement Feature 

Stimulate dry matter intake Appropriate ingredients 

Promote rumen development Ingredients releasing ideal rumen acids 

High rate of tissue protein gain Ideal amino acid profi le 

Good immune function Ideal vitamin and trace element supply 

Minimise digestive upsets Balanced energy sources 

Good bloom Essential fatty acids 

Specific additives 

Potential specifi c feed additives must be evaluated based on sound research. A 

cost effective, consistent response must be demonstrated. 

Physical form 

Compound feeds in 3mm pellet form are the most common calf concentrates. 

However, new specialist products in 6mm nut form, which are designed for 

feeding to calves and growing cattle beyond twelve weeks, are increasing in 

popularity. They provide a very simple, cost effective ‘single feed’ system. 

Coarse mixtures have historically been popular. They are very visually appealing 

and provide similar nutrients to compound feeds. Care must be taken to avoid 

dust and a high proportion of mealy materials which can lead to respiratory 

problems. Latest data suggests that from an economic perspective it is better to 

feed a compound feed than a coarse mixture. 

Application 

Specialist dry calf feeds should be offered from day one up to 12 weeks of age. 

Fresh feed must be provided each day. Calves must be eating at least 1kg for 3 

consecutive days before weaning. When intakes exceed 3.5kg per head per day 

calves should be changed to the appropriate heifer of beef feed. 

For further information or to place your order, 

contact your feed specialist or the farm sales 

co-ordinator at your local branch. 

FeedLine 01278 444829 


Top tips for dry feeding 

Offer feed higher than fl oor level 

Keep dry food fresh 


Ensure dry feed is available ad-lib 

Wean when eating at least 1kg per day for 

three consecutive days 

Typical intake is 150kg per calf up to 12 weeks 

Clean water must be available at all times 

Pellet feeders 

Small pellet feeder - 40 litres 

A maintenance free feeder which keeps the 

feed fresh and reduces bird contamination. 

It has a robust construction for a long and 

maintenance free life with built in hooks 

and a self locking hatch. 

Large pellet feeder - 80 litres 

Also available, length 1350mm, height 

650mm, depth 300mm from MVF branches 

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Husbandry 

HOUSING REQUIREMENTS 

Individual Calves 

Allow 1.1m2 for calves up to 4 weeks of age. Allow 1.8m2 

for calves up to 8 weeks of age. No calf should be confi ned 

in an individual pen after 8 weeks of age (unless directed by 

a veterinary surgeon). All pens should have perforated walls 

(except sick calves in isolation) allowing calves to have direct 

visual and tactile contact with other animals. 

Grouped Calves 

Allow 1.1m2 for calves up to 8 weeks of age. Allow 1.5m2 for 

calves up to 12 weeks of age. 

Passage Width 

Two rows of pens - one on each side of a central passage 

(1.2m). Single row of pens on one side of the passage (1m). 

Trough Frontage 

Feeding space for individually fed calves - 350mm per calf. 

Natural Ventilation 

A calf house should have a minimum cubic air capacity of 

10m3 per calf up to 90kgs. Inlet areas should be a minimum 

of 0.045m per calf and outlets a minimum of 0.004m per calf. 

The outlet must be situated 1.5 - 2.5m above the inlet. With 

both natural and fan ventilation, always ensure a minimum 

ventilation rate of 6 air changes per hour. 

Temperature 

Not critical, providing it is similar to outside conditions and 

calves are sheltered from draughts and bad weather. 

Insulation 

Not required in monopitch or pitched roof designs. 

Heating 

Localised electric heating may be required for sick calves. A 

quartz linear lamp is suitable for group reared calves. It heats 

the calf rather than the air and sick calves move naturally into 

heated zone. 

Floors/Bedding 

Toro Shelters agricultural buildings 

These popular low cost, fabric structures 

are as little as half the cost of 

comparable pole barns or wood structures. 

Building can be installed directly on the 

ground with little to no site preparation. 

Costly concrete foundations are not necessary 

for your livestock barn. 

Spacious interior 

Due to the unique engineering structures, you 

can use the entire inside space. There are 

no internal columns or other obstructions to 

interfere with your desired pen confi guration 

Excellent air quality 

A barn environment that is fresh and healthy, 

with natural light that fi lters through the 

covers, cuts down on moisture and bacteria 

growth, providing an excellent environment 

Beneath straw bedding provide concrete fl oors with a slope of at 

least 1 in 20. Passages should be domed and the fl oor slope in feed 

storage areas should be 1 in 40. 

Water 

Individually penned - minimum of one water bucket for each pen. 

Group penned - minimum of one water bowl for every 10 - 12 calves. 

Lighting 

Natural - provide 10% of the roof as translucent sheeting. Artifi cial - 

provide 100 - 200 lux at calf level to aid inspection of calves. 

for livestock of all ages. Superior 

ventilation options, such as roll-up sides 

and ridge vents, are also available. 

Abundant natural light 

The white fabric covers let natural light 

shine through, the interior of a Toro 

structure is an inviting environment 

that all types of livestock thrive in. 

The natural light improves the mood 

of livestock, reduces the need for 

artifi cial lighting and lowers your energy 

consumption. 

Available through Mole Valley 

Plus, members receive a 

discount to Toro’s standard 

pricing. 

01769 576201

Hygiene is vital for healthy livestock 

and optimising performance 

by Dave Horton, Diversey Hygiene Consultant 

Hygiene-related health issues are a major drain 

on the industry. The supply of well grown, 

healthy and vigorous calves is the lifeblood of the 

industry, yet many calves are lost through poor 

hygiene practices every year. 

Others will suffer reduced performance throughout 

their life as a consequence of diseases that can be 

controlled more effectively if stringent hygiene 

management protocols are followed 

Better hygiene is at the very heart of the ‘Five C’s, 

that calves need to thrive. 

• Colostrum 

• Cleanliness 

• Comfort 

• Calories 

• Consistency 

A calf that is fi ghting disease will not grow as 

effectively and costs are increased, as drugs are 

used to try and combat the problems. 

Good building hygiene, attention to air quality and 

disinfection of feeding equipment can contribute 

to reduced levels of scours but biosecurity is also 

important to reduce the risk of pathogens being 

introduced. This means paying particular attention 

to the hygiene management of people and vehicles 

coming onto your farm. 

Housing design is vital to managing good hygiene 

practice where large numbers are intended for 

rearing. Equipment should be easy to remove 

after each batch, and surfaces easy to clean. 

Environmental cleaners should be used to penetrate 

the dirt ahead of power washing to reduce all 

debris, and reduce ‘vaporizing’ the bacteria. 

All manure should be removed from the building, 

with special focus on uneven or stone fl oors. Clean 

down is also an opportunity to review the building. 

Maintenance, and preparation for the forthcoming 


Five freedoms 

Husbandry 

Each calf has the right to all five 

freedoms in accordance with the Farm 

Animal Welfare Council. 

1. Freedom from thirst, hunger and 

malnutrition 

2. Freedom from discomfort 

3. Freedom from pain, injury and 

disease 

4. Freedom to express normal 

behaviour 

5. Freedom from fear and distress 

season, and anticipated weather. 

Drainage, and gutters should be 

part of this to ensure excessive 

moisture, and humidity are 

controlled. 

Good hygiene built into your daily 

routines, along with good attention to detail, is vital 

to the modern production of quality livestock. 

Problems with enteric disease and scours can be 

reduced by paying closer attention to hygiene, 

and consistency. Scours can be caused by many 

different pathogens, including rotavirus, E.coli and 

cryptosporidia. The average cost of a case of scours 

is put at £44 and this excludes the reduced lifetime 

performance. 

Pneumonia remains the biggest drain on the industry 

and is the most common postmortem fi nding in 

calves from one to fi ve months old. While mortality 

is low, at around 3 per cent, pneumonia is highly 

infectious and around 50 % of young calves will be 

affected by a single outbreak. It will spread rapidly 

through a group and will cost around £40 per calf. 

Affected calves will never grow to their potential, 

increasing the cost and days to slaughter. 

The risk and costs of pneumonia can be greatly 

reduced. However, if good hygiene practice is 

adopted, including the operation of an all-in allout 

approach followed by thorough cleaning and 

disinfection of the building prior to the introduction 

of the next batch. 

For advice or guidance call 

our Dairy Hygiene specialist 

John Bewes on 

07917 753147 

Mole Valley Plus 

01769 

576201 

For a full range 

of livestock tags 

13

14 


Health and welfare 

Pneumonia - prevention is better than cure 

Tim Potter PhD, MRCVS 

Pneumonia is a cause of major economic 

loss for the cattle industry, with 

estimates for the annual cost of the disease 

running to in excess of £60m. 

These costs are associated with decreased 

production, higher levels of mortality and increased 

veterinary and labour costs. Pneumonia can cause 

irreversible damage to the lungs, meaning that 

even if an animal recovers, its lifetime performance 

will suffer and it will be more susceptible to future 

disease challenges. 

Pneumonia is a multifactorial disease caused by 

various infectious agents. The important viral 

causes of respiratory disease are Infectious Bovine 

Rhinotracheitis (IBR), Bovine Respiratory Syncytial 

Virus (BRSV) and Parainfl uenza-3 virus (PI3). Bovine 

Viral Diarrhoea (BVD) may also be associated with 

pneumonia in some herds due to the negative effects 

it has on an animal’s immune status. These viruses 

can cause disease by themselves or damage the 

defence mechanisms of the upper respiratory tract 

and predispose to secondary bacterial infections of 

the lungs. 

There are a large number of bacteria that can cause 

either primary lung disease or secondary to viral 

compromise of the lung defence mechanisms. The 

important bacteria associated with pneumonia are: 

Mannheimia haemolytica, Pasteurella multocida, 

Histophilus somni and Mycoplasma Bovis. 

An accurate diagnosis of the cause(s) of pneumonia 

is important so that the correct treatments are 

given and that steps can be taken to prevent future 

disease using appropriate vaccines. Producers 

should contact their vet when they are faced with 

an outbreak of disease so that investigations can 

be carried out to identify specifi c causes and risk 

factors that contributed to the outbreak. 

Common ailments of calves 

Calves face a number of challenges in their early 

lives. This table gives a guide to when these are 

likely to strike. 

Vaccines are now available that will provide 

effective control of the common viral (and some 

of the bacterial) causes of pneumonia and should 

be used prior to high-risk periods to minimise the 

risk of disease. Vaccination programmes need to 

be tailored to the circumstances on individual 

farms and care must be taken to ensure vaccines 

are handled and administered in accordance with 

the manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure 

their effectiveness. 

Treatment 

When faced with an outbreak of calf pneumonia, 

the fi rst priority is treatment of the affected 

animals and to minimise the spread of disease 

within the group. Treatment will be most 

effective if it is given as early as possible in 

the course of a disease; so it is important that 

animals with pneumonia are rapidly identifi ed 

and treated correctly. Look out for coughing, 

nasal discharge and laboured breathing; if 

you are concerned about an animal, taking its 

temperature can help identify animals with 

disease. A temperature above 39.5C indicates 

there is an infection. 

Prevention 

The prevention of pneumonia in calves is more 

desirable than having to treat in the face of an 

outbreak. Prevention consists of both vaccination 

programmes and establishing and maintaining 

management practices that reduce the risk of 

disease. Mixing animals of different of ages or 

from different sources within the same airspace 

will increase the risk of respiratory disease. 

To reduce the risk of pneumonia it is important 

that sheds are well ventilated. Do not 

underestimate the impact of the environment; if 

the housing is poor, even high levels of immunity 

will not prevent infection. 

Tim Potter PhD, 

MRCVS (Veterinary 

Surgeon & 

Consultant) 

graduated from the 

Royal Veterinary 

College in 2003 

followed by a 3 

year residency 

programme in dairy 

herd medicine and 

surgery, when he 

completed a PhD 

in antimicrobials 

used in the 

treatment of calf 

pneumonia through 

his involvement in 

various research 

projects where 

he has gained 

extensive 

experience. 

Tim remains an 

active farm animal 

clinician and is also 

involved with the 

clinical research 

projects being 

managed within 

the practice and 

regularly speaks 

at meetings, both 

in the UK and 

internationally.

Coccidiosis in calves 

Coccidiosis has been recognised as a major 

cause of scouring and poor growth rates in 

calves. Sub-clinical coccidiosis is often an 

’invisible’ disease that can have a serious 

economic impact on calf production. 

Coccidiosis in calves causes intestinal 

damage, resulting in depressed growth and performance and 

greater susceptibility to other infections. Fortunately, where 

there is a known history of coccidial infection, outbreaks can be 

prevented with pro-active herd health planning. 

Coccidiosis in caused when cells in the lining of the animal’s gut 

become infected with a single-celled ‘parasite’, not a bacteria 

but a protozoa called Eimeria. Coccidiosis rapidly destroys the 

lining of the gut. An infected calf will shed millions of coccidial 

oocysts in its faeces, every day, meaning infection is spread easily 

when animals are stocked densely and the environment is heavily 

contaminated. Other calves contract the infection when they 

consume these oocysts from the environment. 

Many coccidial infections exist at a sub-clinical level, and so it is 

often not tested for. It is this ‘sub-clinical’ infection that can cause 

unnecessary and serious production loss. 

• Sub optimal weight gain 

• Dry rough coat 

• Poor appetite 

Patrick Traill MRCVS, MVF 

Veterinary Services Manager 

Reduced growth is the main sign of coccidiosis. 

Signs of clinical coccidial infection 

Anorexia 

Weakness 

Fever 

Diarrhoea 

Dehydration 

Calves that survive severe clinical coccidiosis may never fully 

recover and could end up as runts and remain in poor condition. 

Risk factors for coccidiosis 

Any factors that cause stress 

Mixed ages 

Crowding 

Poor ventilation 

Soiled bedding with warm environment 

Presence of calves that are infected and 

shedding cocci into the environment 


Diagnosis 

An analysis of faeces will confi rm presence of coccidial oocysts. 

Samples need to be collected from at least 10 animals and 

importantly not just those that are scouring, as peak oocystshedding 

often does not occur when diarrhoea is present. 

Appropriate treatment at an appropriate time can then be 

recommended, stopping any further losses. 

Treatment, control and prevention 

Where there is a history of coccidial infections, it is possible 

to calculate when an outbreak of coccidial scours is most 

likely to occur, and consequently the best time to administer 

preventative treatment. 

There are two types of preventative treatment for coccidiosis: 

1) An in-feed coccidiostat fed for 28 days, which stops further 

reproduction and growth of coccidia. 

2) An oral administration of a coccidiocide to destroy the 

coccidia and prevent the clinical signs of coccidiosis. This also 

signifi cantly reduces the levels of oocyst excreted, reducing 

the disease pressure and helping safeguard other calves from 

developing infection. 

Hygiene 


Coccidial oocysts are very persistent; existing for over a year 

they are able to withstand freezing temperatures and are 

resistant to many to the majority of disinfections. Where 

possible operate an ‘all-in all-out’ policy with effective cleaning 

and disinfection in between bunches. 

Isolate scouring calves to allow them to be treated effectively 

and to reduce risk of disease transmission to others in the group. 

Spotting infection early with a faecal egg count and reducing 

the infective burden and treating where necessary is key to 

controlling this important disease that impacts on growth and 

production. 

Ask at your local MVF Branch for a Faecal Collection Kit 

Call us on 

0844 272 

4900 

8.30am - 5.30pm 

5 days a week 

15

16 

FOR MOLE MORE VALLEY INFORMATION 

FARMERS | CALF MANAGEMENT GUIDE 2012 

ON ANY OF THE 

PRODUCTS, SERVICES 

AND ADVICE MENTIONED 

IN THIS SUPPLEMENT 

PLEASE CALL YOUR 

FARM SALES SPECIALIST 

OR VISIT YOUR NEAREST 

MVF BRANCH 

Bridgwater 

01278 424240 

Cullompton 

01884 34333 

Frome 

01373 831114 

Holsworthy 

01409 253014 

Liskeard 

01579 340034 

Newton Abbot 

01626 836555 

South Molton 

01769 574477 

St Columb 

01637 881115 

Yeovil 

01935 420971 

MVF FEEDLINE 

01278 444829 

ADAM MAY 

07818 017116 

Mole Valley Farmers 

Farm Services at 

SCATS Countrystores, 

Billingshurst, Bridgend 

and Dorchester 


Products for calves 

Scour problems 

Glucose 

40% 

injection ction 

Pessary antiseptic 

cleansing fl ush 

Calf bucket 

1¼ gallon 


Product Pack Size Calves Electrolyte Energy 

Gelling 

Agent 

Norbrook Life Aid Extra 

12 sachet 

48 sachet 

2 

8 

y 

y 

y 

y 

n 

n 

Pfi zer Scour Formula Extra 

12 sachet 

48 sachet 

2 

8 

y 

y 

y 

y 

n 

n 

Forum Scourproof Extra 

14 sachet 

42 sachet 

4 

12 

y 

y 

y 

y 

y** 

y** 

Volac Anti Scour Gold 

500g 

2.5kg 

1g per kg liveweight* 

1g per kg liveweight* 

y 

y 

y 

y 

y*** 

y*** 

* no need to withdraw milk for milder symptoms. For more severe symptoms withdraw milk and feed up 

to 500g over 2 days as per instructions ** Ispaghula husk *** Natural plant fi bres and pectins 

Mole Valley Farmers branches stock a huge range of 

goods to help you raise healthy calves. You can also 

buy many products from our website, 

www.molevalleyfarmers.com and have them 

delivered to your farm. 

Calf milk whisk 

This is just a small selection 

of items you may need to look 

after the health, welfare and 

life of your calves. 

Please visit one of our branches 

or shop on line to see the full 

range. 

www.molevalleyfarmers.com 

Published by Mole Valley Farmers Ltd., Moorland House, Station Road, South Molton, Devon EX36 3BH 01769 573431 www.molevalleyfarmers.com 05/12

MoleValley Calf - Mole Valley Farmers

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