Colostrum Is Vital Food For Newborn Calves
cattlenetwork.com
Colostrum intake is critical for the newborn calf, says Greg Lardy, a North Dakota State University Extension Service beef cattle specialist.
“At birth, a calf’s immune system is not fully developed,” he says. “The calf must rely on colostrum from the cow until its own immune system is totally functional (about 1 to 2 months of age).”
Colostrum contains antibodies or immunoglobulins necessary to provide the calf with protection from disease.