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What are the optimum levels of protein and fat in a milk replacer to reach growth rates of 1.5 to 2 lb/day? How about level of protein in the calf starter for maximum lean tissue gain?
Last Updated: August 30, 2007
Optimal protein (tag value) is 20 to 22% crude protein (all milk-based for the first 21 days) and 10 to 20% fat (higher levels during cold weather in hutches). We prefer 20% fat (whole milk is 28% fat). Calf starter should contain 18% crude protein (tag value) or 20% on a dry matter basis with 5 to 7% crude fiber (no hay is needed due to fiber in the calf starter). Other options are to evaluate intensive calf feeding systems to attain desired growth rates. These are addressed in the reference material accompanying the dairy calf and hefier management section.
Mike Hutjens, Extension Dairy Specialist, University of Illinois - Illini DairyNET
Hugh Chester-Jones, Dairy and Beef Specialist, U of MN
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