Q. Why is this a top resource article? “Weighing milk replacer powder and measuring water volume is the best way to ensure accurate mixing,” says Tom Earleywine, director of nutritional services with Land O’Lakes Animal Milk Products. “While it’s easy to get into a routine, it’s always a good idea to brush up on your mixing skills to ensure you’re providing consistent nutrition to your calves. These step-by-step mixing instructions are a great resource when you need a quick refresher.” It is easy to get into a habit of doing something the same way it has always been done. Mixing calf milk replacer is no exception.

Most of a young calf’s nutrition is supplied via milk or milk replacer during the first two to three weeks of life, making it the young calf’s only source of energy. Starter grain fed during this time does not supply a significant amount of additional energy, as it is primarily fed for rumen development.

Born without an active immune system to defend against disease, a newborn calf relies on the consumption of colostrum to build immunity. Disease-fighting immunoglobulins (commonly called IgG) in colostrum provide the immune protection newborn calves so desperately need to fight off environmental pathogens and bacteria.

Scours can occur as a result of pathogens and stressors. When calves get scours they may experience electrolyte loss, dehydration and increased risk of death due to dehydration. During these times, oral electrolyte solutions become extremely important.