05/22/2026
This week we have some advice from Dr. Andy-
A common question during calving is how to address a calf that may not have received any or enough colostrum. Colostrum is essential to newborn health and success on both beef and dairy farms. There are several products available if you are not able to feed the cow's colostrum. First, evaluate whether you are using a colostrum supplement or a colostrum replacer. They are formulated just as the name suggests-a colostrum replacer will replace colostrum completely. A colostrum supplement will supplement poor quality or quantity of colostrum.
The gold standard for colostrum feeding is to feed 10% of the birth weight in the first 12-24 hours that is at least 50g/L of IgG. This means an 80-pound calf would need 4 L in the first 12-24 hours or 200 g of IgG. Depending on the product and packaging, this could be more than 1 packet of colostrum replacer, and 4 or more packets of supplement depending on the manufacturer. Always check the label to see how much IgG is present and how much product is needed to either supplement or replace colostrum. If you are ever in doubt, we carry colostrum replacer and can help answer any questions you may have!
