Colostrum management is crucial for calf performance during and after rearing. Offering transition milk (from the 2nd to the 6th milking after calving), following the first colostrum feeding, up to the fourth day of life plays a major role in adequate colostrum management. Colostral fat and active components present in transition milk play an important role in the development of the young calf’s digestive system. Feeding transition milk significantly enhances the growth of intestinal villi (see figure), contributes to better intestinal health, ensures healthy and strong calves, reduces the use of medication, and results in better performance after calving.
Microscopy images of proximal jejual tissue from calves (1). Calves consumed: A, colostrum, B, 1:1 colostrum/whole milk and C, whole milk from 12-72 hours after initial meal of colostrum. Source:J. Pyo, J. Dairy Sci. 103:4236–4245, 2020.
In the study, the increased villi size resulted in a 54% larger intestinal surface area in the transition milk group compared to the cow’s milk. Larger intestinal surface area enhances nutrient absorption, leading to improved growth. In addition to promoting the growth of intestinal villi, feeding transition milk provides further benefits at the intestinal level. While the IgGs present in transition milk can no longer be absorbed into the bloodstream due to the closure of the intestinal wall, they still offer local protection.
This enhances immunity and provides extra defense against diarrhea in the first weeks of life. A healthy intestinal flora contributes to stronger, healthier calves with fewer health issues during early life. This leads to better daily growth and overall stronger calves.
To support the calf, even after the period in which the calf is offered transition milk, Schils presents Novilac TurboStart. Novilac TurboStart is THE calf milk replacer that simulates the properties of transition milk. The milk replacer can be fed directly after colostrum period during the first 3 weeks after birth or the entire milk period.
