When it comes to feeding calf milk replacer — consistency is important. Employees in charge of feeding calves have a very important job.
Not only is the nutrition that calves receive very important, but so is proper mixing. Proper mixing and feeding calves work hand-in hand to ensure that calves receive the right nutrition to keep them healthy and growing.
Three keys to success that calf feeders should evaluate and follow when mixing and feeding calf milk replacer are:
1. Consistently follow the recipe
Like a chef follows a recipe, a calf feeder must follow the instructions listed on the milk replacer bag to make sure proper nutrition is delivered to the calf.
If feeding multiple calves, it is recommended to use batch mixing for the best results.
Batch mixing involves mixing large quantities of milk replacer.
To properly measure and mix calf milk replacer:
• Start by measuring out the total amount of milk replacer needed by reading the instructions on the bag packaging. Calculate the total amount of milk replacer needed to feed all calves.
• Use a scale to weigh the milk replacer. Do not use a cup for measuring because no two people will fill a cup to the same level.
Measuring powder by weight will always be more accurate than using a cup.
• Fill the mixing bucket or mixer to approximately half of the total water of final amount needed.
Pour the powder on top of the water, mix and continue to mix while adding the remaining water to reach the amount needed to feed all calves.
Never put powder on bottom of the bucket and then add water, as this causes clumping and inconsistent mixing.
• When mixing, use a container or bucket that is adjusted for volume or use a tool, like a water meter, to correctly fill buckets with the right amount of milk replacer to deliver the same amount to each calf.
2. Mix with the correct temperature of water
Water temperature plays an important role in mixing calf milk replacer.
If the water is too hot, the proteins in the milk replacer will not work properly or it could cause the fat in the replacer to separate.
If the water used it too cold, the nutrients in the milk replacer will not be properly mixed to deliver the same nutrition to each calf being fed the batch.
Calf milk replacer powder should be mixed into water 110 to 120ºF. Use a thermometer to make sure the water is the correct temperature prior to mixing the milk replacer. Be sure to wear any safety equipment needed.
3. Feed at the right temperature
Temperature is important, not only when mixing milk replacer, but also when feeding it. Milk replacer should be fed to calves at a temperature of 101 to 105ºF.
The temperature should be checked with a thermometer when feeding the first and last calf to make sure the temperature hasn’t dropped too much.
If water temperature is too hot, calves will not drink and it could scald the calf’s mouth. If it is fed too cold, the milk will cause the solution to sit in the calf’s digestive tract which could cause health problems.
Feeding calves proper nutrition starts with proper mixing of calf milk replacer. Take time to check mixing routines for areas that can be improved or changed. Consistent mixing delivers consistent nutrition to calves.
Source: Progressive Dairyman
