Internationally this area has received quite a lot of attention in recent years. It is now recognised that growth and development right from birth can have a significant impact on the lifetime performance potential of dairy heifers. What’s more, getting things wrong early on can not be corrected by good management later.
Good calf rearing is known to positively affect:
- Rumen development, function and capacity.
- Skeletal development and bone strength.
- Mammary development.
Unlike bull calves, there is now work to suggest that heifer calves can benefit from having milk in their diet right through to at least 10 weeks of age. Late born calves can benefit and catch up if fed milk for even longer.
It is now suggested in some circles that dairy heifers should not be weaned off milk before the following target weights are met.
Jerseys—90kg
Crossbreeds / Ayrshires—100kgs
Friesians—110-120kgs (type dependant)
Food for thought!!