In Kenya, dairy farmers are turning to milk replacers as a viable option for calf nutrition. According to Unga Farmcare, milk replacers can be introduced to calves as early as three days old, after the colostrum period. This provides a consistent and reliable source of nutrition, supporting growth and development. Milk replacers are packaged as powder and need to be mixed with warm water at a temperature of 45°C.
The composition of milk replacers is similar to that of cow's milk, with a dry matter content of 12.5% and crude protein levels of 25-30g per liter. However, milk replacers have a more uniform nutritional profile, making them a better option for large-scale farming systems. They are also fortified with essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamins A, D, and E, and calcium and phosphorus.
When preparing milk replacers, it is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions to avoid incorrect preparation, which can lead to health issues in calves. For example, mixing 1kg of Afya Bora calf milk replacer with 7 liters of warm water provides a dry matter content of 130gms/liter. The mixture should be fed to calves at a temperature of 40°C, and hygiene practices should be maintained to prevent contamination.
In addition to milk replacers, introducing fodder to calves at an early age is crucial for rumen development and growth. Farmers can start offering small amounts of soft, high-quality fodder alongside calf starter concentrate at around 1-2 weeks old. This helps stimulate rumen development and movement, supporting the transition from a milk-based diet to one based on feeds, roughage, and water.
The quality of fodder is essential for calf growth and development. Good-quality fodder should contain enough energy, adequate protein, minerals, vitamins, and digestible fiber. Indicators of good fodder quality include leafiness, stage of harvesting, and digestibility. Farmers should avoid coarse, mature, and 'stemy' fodder, which can be difficult for calves to digest.
Mineral supplementation is also crucial for strong bone development, healthy growth, and a strong immune system in growing calves. A balanced mineral supplement provides essential nutrients that promote feed efficiency, vitality, and overall calf performance. Farmers should aim to provide 50gm/calf/day of mineral supplement by the weaning stage, with a gradual increment starting from the second week of life.
Finally, calf comfort, housing, and access to clean water are essential for growth and development. Calves should have unrestricted access to clean, fresh water from the first week of life, and their housing should provide protection from cold, heat, rain, wind, and draught. Proper housing ensures hygiene and reduces the spread of disease, supporting overall calf health and well-being.
Key points
- Milk replacers provide a reliable and healthy alternative to cow's milk for calf nutrition, supporting growth and development.
- Early introduction of fodder and mineral supplementation are crucial for rumen development and strong bone growth in calves.
- Calf comfort, housing, and access to clean water are essential for overall calf health and well-being.
