By Andi Anderson
At a recent MSU Extension Heifer Academy Webinar, MSU’s Cora Okkema and Dr. Anne Laarman from the University of Alberta highlighted the critical role of gut health and stress management in dairy calves.
Gut health is about more than feed; it’s about how calves digest and adapt from day one. A strong digestive system ensures better nutrient absorption, immune support, and stress resistance. Research shows calves with better early starter intake achieve higher milk production later in life.
However, young calves face a vulnerable immune gap. Maternal antibodies from colostrum drop after 3–4 days, while their own immunity develops after 2–3 weeks.
Stress from weaning, temperature changes, or poor nutrition during this window can weaken gut function and immunity. Early microbial colonization is important but can backfire if harmful pathogens invade.
Starter grain intake, essential for rumen development, must be managed carefully. High starch levels can lower rumen pH, leading to rumen and hindgut acidosis. Mature cattle maintain a rumen pH of 6.0–6.6, but calves often operate closer to 5.2–5.5, highlighting the need for balanced feeding and gradual transitions.
Laarman outlines a three-phase approach:
- Phase 1: Focus on colostrum intake during the first week to boost immunity.
- Phase 2: Weeks two to six, focus on optimal milk feeding and consistent care.
- Phase 3: Around six weeks, active immunity develops, and gradual weaning can begin.
Supporting gut health also includes managing thermal stress, providing fresh water from day one, introducing hay after 3–4 weeks carefully, and monitoring calf behavior for early stress signs.
Proper gut and stress management early in life lays the foundation for healthier, more productive cattle, maximizing lifetime performance and profitability.
Photo Credit: istock-emholk
Categories: Michigan, Livestock