Not just a bigger calf, a better calf.

Feeding calves to meet their nutritional requirements (protein and energy) has a direct effect on their immune response.

And here’s the proof to back it up.

  • Canadian Journal Vet Research, 1987: “Calves fed below maintenance, experienced decreased lymphocyte proliferation and lower antibody response.”
  • Research in Veterinary Science & British Journal of Nutrition 1993: “When compared to calves fed low levels of milk replacer (.88 lb / day); calves fed higher milk replacer levels (2.2 lb / day), the calves fed the higher level had improved cell-mediated immunity.”
  • ADSA/ASAS Abstract, 2000: “Higher level of nutrition increased production of nitric oxide and interferon-γ by mononuclear leukocytes (enhanced immune response).”

That’s what the scientists have to say, now see what dairy producers have learned. Based on a nationwide Cow’s Match customer survey:

  • An overwhelming 74 percent of all customers report a reduction in pre-weaning mortality.
  • 89 percent of all customers report a positive impact on calf health, with a reduction in antibiotic and electrolyte treatment costs.

What about long-term effects?

  • Based on the same national customer survey quoted above, 94 percent of dairies report an average 2 months decrease in Age at First Calving.
  • Based on a statistical analysis of long-term Cow’s Match customers’ DHIA records, Age at First Calving for Cow’s Match-raised heifers averaged 2.5 months earlier compared to their traditionally raised herd mates.
  • Cornell University research scientists conducted a study reviewing 2.5 million DHIA lactation records showed that for every month beyond 22 months Age at First Calving results in an irrecoverable loss of $100 net due to delayed milk production and reduced days of productive life!

1 Van Amburgh, M and Meyer, M. 2005

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