Subsequent Performance of Calves Held at Near Birht Weight for the First Three Weeks of Life

Abstract

Thirty-six Holstein calves with mean daily gain from −.01 to .44kg during the first 3 wk of life were used to study effects of early gain on performance through 12 wk of age. During the initial 3 wk, calves were fed milk replacer only at fluid intakes of 8 and 10% body weight and dry matter concentrations of 10, 15, and 20%. Starting with the 4th wk of life calves were offered a complete calf starter (guaranteed minimum 15% crude protein) ad libitum. Calves continued to receive replacer once daily in those treatment combinations. All calves were weaned abruptly at 6 wk of age. Fluid intake had no effect on gain anytime from 4 to 12 wk of age. Mean daily gain from 4 to 12 wk was .67 and .68kg for calves fed fluid intakes of 8 and 10% body weight. Dry matter concentration of replacer had no effect on gain during wk 4 to 6. However, during wk 7 to 8, immediate post weaning, mean daily gains were .56, .60, and .38kg for calves previously fed replacer at 10, 15, or 20% dry matter. Gains from 4 to 12 wk were .67, .69, and .66 kg/day for calves fed 10, 15, or 20% dry matter. Intake of starter dry matter during wk 4 to 6 decreased with increasing fluid intake and concentration of replacer. Calves can be maintained near birth weight for up to 3 wk without detrimental effects on performance through 12 wk of age.