Prevent that growth slump

Calf growth needs don’t end at weaning, as a dairy calf’s rumen is only partially developed at this stage.  And, a fully developed rumen is critical for the proper digestion and nutrient absorption of the heavy-forage based diet of a dairy cow. 
 
Often producers may notice a growth slump in their dairy calves immediately following weaning – even after a good nutritional foundation.  Land O’Lakes Purina Feed offers insights to this challenge and suggests how to best combat this calf development problem: 

1. Calves are transitioned quickly on to a high proportion of forage, supplemented with little or no grain, but at this stage the calf isn’t ready for a high forage diet.
2. The calf’s body can’t digest and absorb adequate nutrients and energy from the amount of forage she can consume, and growth rate suffers.
3. Calves from 12-24 weeks of age are still able to more efficiently convert feed to healthy gain.
4. Post-weaned calves should maintain a high-protein grain diet up to 10 lbs/day, with plenty of fresh water at all times, with clean hay provided free-choice.
5. This program helps extend and enhance the effects of a good, healthy feeding program. 

1. Dairy slaughter numbers drop a tad
2. Reduce your risk when commingling calves
3. Corn futures relapse in wake of Wednesday's rally
4. Wet U.S. Midwest sections may lead to fewer corn acres
5. Where’s the rain? Parched states can’t shake the drought
6. World Dairy Expo announces dairy cattle show manager

1. 4 rules for growing a business or industry
2. Commentary: Milk faces branding dilemma
3. Chocolate milk a top post-workout food
4. Seven jobs more dangerous than farming
5. What do dairy exports mean for Minnesota?
6. Salma Hayek: Milk part of 'perfect' breakfast

1. Seven jobs more dangerous than farming
2. 2014 Farm Bill: Are we near an agreement?
3. Farm bill and immigration reform action needed
4. Class III futures close out quietly last week
5. 4 rules for growing a business or industry
6. White House urges Senate to cut crop insurance in farm bill