TechMix Calf Catalog

Calf

Farmers are

Dedicated

2 TechMix, LLC techmixglobal.com (877) 466-6455

To the farm, to their herd, to a way of life, to providing the community with healthy and nutritious products. We believe that this kind of dedication deserves an equal commitment to excellence.

As a company, TechMix believes that listening to and understanding our customers gives us the ability to bring fresh thought and unique products to the market. For 30 years, TechMix has served the livestock industry by providing innovative products that deliver optimum nutrition when animals need it most. Backed by science and powered with experience, TechMix is dedicated to helping you achieve performance and profitability through improved animal health.

Whether we’re developing new formulations, utilizing high impact ingredients, or offering flexibility through a variety of administration options, TechMix works to revitalize nutrition and health with you in mind.

TechMix, LLC techmixglobal.com (877) 466-6455 3

About UsAn innovative, family-owned company, TechMix has grown from its small-town Minnesota roots to compete in the global marketplace. Our growth is a direct result of not just superior products, but a focus on solutions to animal problems, developing protocols for “Timed Event Nutrition”, and solutions to animal health and wellness issues. This, combined with superior customer support, is what helps a reliable and proactive company like TechMix, meet your needs.

International DivisionTechMix International provides unique specialty products to the global marketplace that allow livestock producers to maximize animal performance. Livestock throughout the world share the same stressful events. Our unique specialty products are designed for these events and can fit any market.

Internationally, we connect marketing with genetics distributors to bring the products to the international marketplace, helping livestock reach their genetic potential through health and performance. With manufacturing hubs in the U.S., Ireland, Spain, and China we have the unique ability to monitor product quality, regulatory compliance and manufacturing to ensure our products meet standards for quality.

Nutrition DivisionIn 2009, a partnership was formed to purchase Protein Resources, which allowed TechMix to create, manufacture and market unique and effective products that meet the needs of a wide-ranging marketplace. The focus is on high quality, value-added proteins that are ideal for livestock and aquaculture feeds.

The distinction of the nutrition group is to help customers better identify the expanding nutrition product line offered by TechMix.

Table of ContentsPage

Science & Innovation 4

Timed Event Nutrition 5

PRODUCTS

BlueLite® C 6-7

Calf Restart One-4® 8-9

Calf RD 10-11

ProMax Multi 12-13

EVENTS

Fresh Cow Management 14-15

Newborn Care 16-17

Colostrum Management 18-21

Pre-Weaning Nutrition 22-25

Housing & Sanitation 26-27

Biosecurity 28-30

TECHMIX OVERVIEW

TechMix Dairy 31

Recap: TechMix Calves 32


Formulated for the Future of Your HerdFeed consumed by animals varies greatly in nature, and so do their digestive tracts and processes. Simple-stomached animals, such as calves, dogs, horses, and swine use a pH chemical process of digestion. This is very different from how ruminant animals like cows, digest feed with a rumen microflora fermentation mechanism of digestion. At TechMix, we create formulas that are specifically designed to help rehydrate animals according to the type of feed they consume and their particular digestion process. All of the products featured in this catalog are developed specifically with calves in mind, ensuring that they will receive optimum nutrition designed to match the way in which they consume and digest.

PalatabilityTechMix products are formulated with special flavors that appeal to individual species. For oral rehydration formulas to be effective in reducing dehydration, they must be highly palatable and readily consumed by the animal. Cattle, horses, swine, and dogs all have different tastes and prefer different flavors and textures of feed. By specifically formulating each product with its own flavor and texture, TechMix enhances the animal’s desire to consume the water and nutrients.

FlexibilityUntil the BlueLite® product was developed, the only electrolytes available were in salt and pill form. These were very bitter when added to water, and neither animals nor humans would ingest them. It was found that sucrose (different sources of sugar and carbohydrates) in oral hydration products helps contain and maintain the tissue levels of glucose, carbohydrates, and electrolytes. As a result of the added formulation of carbohydrates, the problems of muscle soreness and stiffness were greatly reduced. Knowing that animals feel better with electrolytes, carbohydrates, and glucose, TechMix developed a rehydration product that would be palatable for animals – if an oral rehydration product is to really work, the animals must drink it!

ResearchThe TechMix structure includes ongoing research through various university animal research centers, co-operative efforts with other companies and suppliers, and our own field trials. Members and technical staff from universities help us develop products and refine ingredients. This combination of science and research help to ensure that TechMix products continue to deliver the right nutrients as they are needed.

TechMixScience & Innovation


The Right Nutrition at the Right TimeThe right nutritional assistance, at the right time, is Timed Event Nutrition. Timed Event Nutrition products provide calves a much better chance of getting through challenging events such as birth, heat stress, scours, and transportation with fewer complications. Numerous field studies demonstrate that TechMix products are economical to use and deliver measurable return on investment. Instead of waiting for trouble to strike, producers can take a proactive approach to a healthier calf, naturally, through nutrition.

Our primary objective for calf products is to help maintain normal herd health during critical times through proper nutrition and effective hydration.

For the Critical Times• Scours• Heat stress• Birth• Changing environments

• Weaning• Dehydration• Extreme cold

Science & Innovation

• Encourage water intake and maintain hydration• Ease the transition to weaning• To aid in the digestion of colostrum• To aid in inhibiting pathogen growth• To enhance digestion and optimize nutrient

performance• For purchased calves to get started on the right

track• Add to water during the summer and winter

months for added energy• For daily hydration maintenance to provide extra

fluids during scours

Available Sizes2 oz packets6 lb pail25 lb pail50 lb box

In the first few days of life, calves encounter metabolic and digestive stresses as they change environments and make the transition to a milk diet. Ensure a healthy start by providing a boost of energy and electrolytes to help support immune system development. BlueLite C helps to rehydrate calves by proving electrolytes, multiple energy sources, and acidification to help promote a healthy digestive environment. BlueLite C can be administered with milk products to enhance digestion and utilization, and has been proven an effective and easy way to ensure that young calves maintain hydration balance.

Calves have minimal reserves of fat, energy and electrolytes and are unable to digest complex forms of energy and protein. Provide acidified electrolytes and readily digestible energy by adding BlueLite C to whole milk, milk replacer, or water. At the first sign of dehydration or loss of energy provide BlueLite C and continue until normal consumption returns. BlueLite C’s compatible acidification aids in scours prevention when administered the first 7 to 10 days of life with whole milk or milk replacer. For many years, producers have relied on the proven success of BlueLite C to quickly hydrate young calves and to promote optimum results.

An acidified electrolyte supplement to hydrate weaned calves.

Rehydrate. Recover. Perform.

When to Use:


POWDER

“BlueLite C is an essential product on our operation.” Kevin Kaiser, Ruedinger Farms, Fond du Lac County, WI. At Ruedinger Farms, calves are given pasteurized milk three times daily to help build the immunity needed to fight off disease challenges. “A large part of our calf protocol is BlueLite C. If a calf doesn’t finish her bottle, we offer electrolytes. Within 3-4 hours of getting BlueLite C, the calf starts bouncing back and starts drinking milk again. Since establishing this program, we have experienced fewer cases of scours and our calves are alert and energetic. With results like these, we know BlueLite C is an important part of our program.”


Dairy Calf HealthThe health of dairy calves early in their life (the first eight weeks), directly impacts future milk production and longevity in the dairy herd. For baby calves, scours (diarrhea) is the most common health problem that they will face. Oral rehydration solutions are used to enhance fluid absorption and water retention to restore normal electrolyte and energy balance.

When should electrolytes be given?Early detection of sick calves is critical, as calves can lose 5 to 10% of their body weight in water within just one day of scouring. These calves must receive fluids, electrolytes, and energy. The fluids are essential in order to allow body organs to continue to function. However, the fluid cannot be absorbed unless it contains adequate amounts of electrolytes. This absorption process requires lots of energy. If you can keep the calf hydrated, it’s own body defenses will usually be able to control the infection agents.

PRODUCT IN ACTION

Calves need enough energy to maintain their weight as well as their immune system, especially when they are sick. Oral electrolytes alone, cannot provide enough energy to meet the demands needed by the scouring, dehydrated calf. Therefore, feeding milk or milk replacer in addition to the electrolyte and energy supplement supplies more energy and protein, allowing calves to meet their increased fluid requirements and maintain weight. BlueLite C is specifically designed for use in calves when their primary source of nutrients is whole milk or milk replacer.

Scours are common in pre-weaned calves. The first line of defense during scouring events is to provide adequate hydration therapy.

• To encourage weight gain• To promote feed intake• To balance the digestive system using beneficial

bacteria• For energy deficient and dehydrated calves• When calves look too weak to drink• For malabsorption during scours• To enhance post-treatment recovery

Available Sizes5 oz drench / 30 bottles per case10 lb pail25 lb pail

For a young calf, dehydration and weight loss can happen very quickly. Make recovery easier for nutrient deficient calves by providing a quick boost of energy and electrolytes. Calf Restart One-4 contains electrolytes, amino acids, plasma proteins, beneficial bacteria, and multiple sources of energy in a readily digestible milk base.

Calf Restart One-4 is available in easy-to-use drench bottles or in a powdered form for administration with milk replacer, milk, or water. At the first sign of energy deficiency, dehydration, or after health issues, administer Calf Restart One-4 and continue to feed until hydration is balanced and appetite returns. For years, producers have relied on Calf Restart One-4 to provide dehydrated calves with the nutrients necessary to return to optimum health.

A supplement containing highly digestible powder that provides essential nutrients and hydration for young calves.

When to Use:


POWDER

“Calf Restart One-4 gives calves the boost of energy and nutrients they need during stressful times.” Mark Schneider, Schneider Farms, Hilbert, WI. “If a calf doesn’t drink on her own during a feeding, she gets drenched with Calf Restart. With the extra boost of nutrients and added electrolytes, the calf bounces back quickly. When a calf shows signs of energy deficiency (i.e. dull eyes, droopy ears, sluggish) it really works; Calf Restart One-4 really is a fantastic product.”


Calf NutritionThere are three main components in Calf Restart One-4: amino acids, milk proteins, and animal plasma.

Amino AcidsAmino acids, otherwise known as the building blocks of protein are one of the most important nutrients for a calf as it depends on protein for all bodily functions – from immune system regulation to growth and reproduction all the way through milk production in adult life. Equipping calves with the right amino acid levels helps to establish their ability to stay healthy, grow properly and reach peak performance.

Milk ProteinMilk protein is essential for calves because it is involved in almost every biochemical reaction in the body and is crucial for growth and survival. Research has shown that when calves fed milk replacer containing milk protein they saw body weight gain and increased dry matter intake (J.D. Quigley, III and T.M. Wolfe, 2003). By offering milk proteins to a dehydrated, scouring calf, your providing the ability for them to bounce back and get them eating again.

Animal PlasmaAnimal plasma is a widely used ingredient as a source of active IgG, which is believed to limit intestinal colonization by enteric pathogens. A potential alternative to antibiotics, animal plasma contains Ig and other compounds with antibacterial and antiviral activity. Research shows that it may also provide other components that may reduce the incidence and severity of enteric disease (J. D. Quigley, III, C. J. Kost, and T. A. Wolfe, 2002). These other components have been reported to help inhibit the adhesion of viruses, preventing them from causing harm.

Providing a scouring, energy-deficient calf with animal plasma has shown to impact performance. This observation is consistent with other research indicating that amino acids working with milk protein and animal plasma (IgGs) is of value to animals during periods of stress. The three main components in Calf Restart One-4 help the calf to overcome stresses involved with enteric disturbances.

• To aid in rumen development• To improve the transition to dry feed and enhance

intake• To help reduce digestive disturbances• To populate the digestive system with healthy

bacteria• To help calves to be more viable when moved to a

group pen

Available Sizes800 gram jar25 lb pail

Calf RD is specifically designed to aid in the development of the rumen; to establish dry feed intake at an earlier age to help improve weaning weight and reduce digestive health issues. Packed with DFMs (direct-fed microbials), Calf RD uses live bacteria to help maintain a more desirable digestive environment, in turn helping to starve off pathogens and aid in nutrient utilization.

Giving Calf RD is as easy as mixing it with milk replacer, milk, or water. Adding daily DFMs promotes faster rumen development and encourages starter intakes, both of which allow calves to gain weight more quickly and wean earlier if desired. Administer Calf RD to create a healthy digestive environment to better withstand the potential impact of pathogens such as E.coli and salmonella. Calf RD is an effective way to help calves to ease the transition to dry feed with less digestive disruption.

What makes Calf RD unique?Preventing disease is always cheaper than treating sick animals. Maintaining an optimal GI environment for nutrient utilization is critical. Many factors can influence calf health:• Immune development• Colostrum passive transfer• Pathogens• Nutrition• Stress• Environmental conditions

A supplement containing a source of live, viable microorganisms for use in calves.

When to Use:


POWDER

“I see positive results on a daily basis with Calf RD.” Clarine Howe, Howe Holsteins, Hutchinson, MN. At Howe Holsteins, helping calves transition to dry feed quickly is key. Calf RD is mixed directly in the milk once a day from day two to weaning. The importance of starting calves off right and giving beneficial bacteria on a daily basis helps ensure early rumen development is obtained. “We notice calves having increased growth rates since starting Calf RD. They transition well from the huts to group pens making weaning as stress free as possible.”


High Impact Ingredients: BacteriaCalf RD contains lactobacillus strains and other fermentation products that produce lactic acid. These help to maintain optimal intestinal pH levels, provide competitive exclusion of pathogenic bacteria attempting to colonize, and produce enzymes that aid in nutrient digestion.

Enterococcus faecium may limit the growth of pathogenic microbes reducing/preventing disease (e.g. diarrhea).

Bacillus subtilis & Bacillus licheniformis impacts the nutrient utilization in milk replacer and feed while also impacting rumen development. Bacillus can produce peptides possible of limiting growth of other pathogenic bacteria.

PRODUCT IN ACTION

Growth RatesFeed IntakeEnergy BalanceRumen DevelopmentImmune System

Pathogens Growth/ColonizationOxidative StressFeeding CostsTime to Weaning

On farms, the use of Calf RD has been shown to help increase and decrease the following:

• During travel• During extreme weather conditions• At birth• At weaning• After scours• Following antibiotic treatments

Available Size80 cc tube

Introducing beneficial bacteria to the digestive system of an animal is essential to create an efficient digestive environment. Use ProMax Multi to jumpstart animal health with DFMs (direct-fed microbials) any time immune system support is needed. ProMax Multi provides stabilized live lactic acid bacteria with the inclusion of inulin and vitamins in an easy-to-administer paste.

ProMax Multi contains 14 billion live bacterial cells and active enzymes in every 10 cc dose. At birth, the digestive system is nearly sterile: a dose of ProMax Multi adds beneficial organisms, helping to fight off enteric challenges. Calves can benefit from the introduction of beneficial bacteria any time they are off feed, when digestion is interrupted, during times of illness, or when changing environments. When instant digestive or immune system support is needed, ProMax Multi is an easy way to deliver a quick dose of healthy bacteria and has been proven to aid in reducing metabolic disorders in the herd.

A supplemental source of live, viable microoganisms for use in calves.

MULTI

When to Use:


PASTE

High Impact IngredientsInulinA complex sugar extracted from chicory root, inulin is not digested by animals but utilized by the bacteria in the lower gut. When calves are born, their stomach environment is sterile; containing neither good, nor bad bacteria. After colostrum is given, offering beneficial bacteria to the calf helps them get started on the right track. Lactic acid bacteria, help to lower intestinal pH, therefore inhibiting the growth of potential pathogens. Lactic acid bacteria have to survive very challenging conditions in the gastrointestinal tract before they are able to colonize the gut and benefit the calf. Research shows that when combined with direct fed microbials, Inulin gives beneficial bacteria a better chance to survive in the gut.

Egg AntibodiesFor years egg antibodies have been seen by producers as a way to provide a quick gastrointestinal boost for their calves, when mixed in with raw whole milk. Chickens produce antibodies against the antigen they are exposed which are secreted into the yolk of the egg. Egg antibodies from immunized laying hens will passively protect calves against the corresponding pathogens such as E. coli. The antibody works at the epithelial level of the calf’s intestine. It identifies and binds specific pathogenic bacteria rendering them inactive. The bacteria then group together for secretion via feces. These antibodies can also neutralize viruses such as E. coli and other communicable viruses, preventing them from entering the cells and help to maintain normal calf health.

Research shows that the use of dried egg products including specific antibodies can

be an effective component in a well-designed calf management program.

“ProMax keeps my calves alive!” Julie Cooper, GJC Dairy, WI. At GJC Dairy, having a low mortality rate in calves is a high priority. “If I lose any calves, it’s too many in my world. That’s why when I see a calf that looks off, I give her ProMax and she comes right back.” Calves are born with an empty, sterile gut. Providing them with the beneficial bacteria to populate the stomach can help in preventing disease. “ProMax builds the gut and builds the immunity back up. This is the product that all calf raisers need.”


The transition period is the most stressful time in lactation. 75% of all illnesses occur during this time. With the right fresh cow management program, the transition period of the dairy cow is by far the most important window of opportunity that the dairyman has to maximize the overall profitability of the dairy cow. Being aware of the metabolic and infectious diseases that can occur in cows post-calving will help minimize the stress and result in a more effective immune response in fresh cows.

Transition

If assistance with calving is needed have available the following items: • Clean chains • Lubrication • Breeding gloves • Brush • Disinfectant and water


Calf Management

Key challenges facing the fresh cow:

CALVING KIT

Fresh Cow Management

Challenge RiskLower dry matter intake Slower recovery with chance of

metabolic issues

Hypocalcaemia Calcium levels don’t meet demands of milk production

Magnesium/Potassium Deficiency Increased risk of metabolic issues

Negative Energy Balance Increased risk of metabolic issues

Dehydration Loss of milk production

Ketosis Lower feed intake and reduced milk production

Maternity Pen Design & GuidelinesThe calf’s first environment is the maternity pen. There is no question that the first 24 hours of a calf’s life is most critical. The maternity pen (calving area) is a high priority area to prevent disease in the newborn calf due to bacteria and other viruses being present in the cow’s environment (uterine and nasal secretions, manure, air, contaminated bedding, water, etc.).

While a successful fresh cow management program is key to transitioning the cow into lactation, a well-designed and properly managed maternity pen is necessary for a good calf and heifer management program.• A maternity pen should be

large enough to allow cow and calf movement and to allow access to the cow in the event of a problem

• A pen approximately 12x12 feet allows space for the cow, calf, and facilitates treatment when necessary

• The animal can be restrained by a stanchion placed on one side of the pen

• Gates and doors must be wide enough ( > 6 feet) to admit power equipment into the area for cleaning purposes

Layout Basics

Calves born in a maternity pen have lower mortality rates when compared to other indoor calving practices (Walter-Toews et. al, 1986). A separate calving area allows workers to keep close watch over the cows to assist with calving if needed and help prevent injury to animals and workers (Croney et. al, 2009).

Keep in mind:• A separate maternity pen should be provided for

every 20 to 25 cows• Maternity pens should not be used for treating or

holding sick animals• A maternity pen should be separate from the milk

herd or other young calves• Depending on available space at your operation,

either individual or group calving pens should be established

Individual Calving Pen Group Calving Pen


CALVING PEN GUIDELINES

1. Separate from other animals (not a hospital pen)2. Clean and disinfect between uses3. Well-bedded and dry4. Skid resistant floors5. Draft free6. Well-ventilated to reduce ammonia, hydrosulfide gases,

moisture, microbes or heat7. Stanchion to restrain the animal 8. Drinking water available9. Individual pen – 12 feet by 12 feet10. Group pens – 100-150 square feet per cow

Fresh Cow Management

Care of the newborn calf is crucial to a healthy, well-performing calf. From the moment the calf is born, the outside environment is full of harmful bacteria that can negatively affect the newborn. Calves are born with a sterile stomach environment. It is important to make sure that the first bacteria are beneficial to prepare your calf for a successful start in life. The key areas in care of the newborn calf are:

Remove calf from cow immediately after calving (30-60 minutes).Keeping the calf with the cow and allowing the calf to nurse leads to:• Lower colostrum consumption• Serum IgG achieved is lower than bottle fed calves• Incidence of disease is higher• Higher mortaility

Disinfect navel with 7% tincture of iodine or a product designed for navel dipping (i.e. Navel-Guard) as soon as possible after birth.Studies show that the incidence of umbilical infections range anywhere from 1-4%. To help prevent umbilical infections:• Clean maternity and calf pens• Dip navel shortly after birth

Time Calves Remain with Cows After Birth and Heifer Calf Mortality1

Time (hours) Number of Herds

Avg Mortality(1 wk - 6 mo.)

2-6 13 5.2%

7-12 35 9.3%

13-24 32 10.7%

25-48 24 20.5%

48+ 35 14.4%

1Clemson UniversityNote: Higher mortality was observed when calves were allowed to remain with cow after birth.

Disinfecting vs. Not Disinfecting the Navel2

Disinfected Not Disinfected

Number of Calves 269 132

% Mortality 7.1 18.0

% Treated for Scours 30.5 22.0

% Treated for Pneumonia 5.2 18.9

1Calf Survival Study, Univirsity of Wisconsin

1 2


Calf ManagementNewborn Care

Keep calves dry and warm.• In the winter, dry in warming box for one hour if

needed. Sanitize warming box frequently• Use calf jackets in winter, if needed

Clean and stimulate cow udder prior to milking.• Milk out cow as soon as possible after birth (preferably

within 1-2 hours after birth)• Delaying first milking more than an hour will lower

colostrum quality

Collect colostrum in a sanitary manner and test for quality.• Feed first feeding of colostrum as soon as possible

ideally within one hour after birth.• Feed AT LEAST 3 quarts of colostrum in the first feeding

and repeat 12 hours later.• Use a clean and sanitized esophogeal feeder if calf will

not consume a sufficient amount of colostrum (you should own at least two).

• Use fresh colostrum from the dam if good quality.• Do not pool colostrum. Traditionally, colostrum is

typically higher in IgGs for 2nd lactation and higher cows. Older cows will often produce better quality colostrum than younger cows.

3 4

5


Knowing that calves are the future of your herd, ensuring a good start is vitally important. Newborn calves are born without antibodies in the blood, which are critical for the immune function. The best way to ensure that calves are getting the necessary antibodies is to provide high quality colostrum immediately after birth. Failure of passive transfer occurs if the calf does not receive adequate amounts of high quality colostrum in a timely manner. Failure of passive transfer can lead to increased disease and mortality rates. The four keys to test the effectiveness of a colostrum program (successive passive transfer) are: Quality of colostrum, Quantity of colostrum, Quickness of getting colostrum to the calf, and Cleanliness of the process. The ideal levels for tested colostrum are:

Serum Total Protein > 5.0-5.2 mg/dl (5-7 days of age)Serum IgG > 10 mg/ml (24-48 hours of age)

Some of the benefits of achieving successful passive transfer are reduced treatment and mortality rates, improved growth rates, feed efficiency, decreased age at first calving, and increased first and second lactation milk production.


QualityGoal - 50 g/liter IgG in the colostrum.1. Measure colostrum quality with a colostrometer, refractometer, or quick test method before

using.2. Use only high quality colostrum.3. Milk cow within 6 hours of calving to help maintain colostrum quality.4. Keep in mind the “Rule of 18”: Colostrum from cows producing more than 18 lbs

(approximately 2 gallons) at the first milking will be lower in quality.5. There are many other factors that can affect colostrum quality such as: dry cow

vaccination programs, feeding a balanced dry cow ration, dry cow stress (heat, crowding), and short dry periods (<21 days).

QuantityGoal - 150-200 grams of IgG per calf.

Studies have shown that performance is similar between bottle feeding colostrum and administering with an esophogeal feeder. Regardless which option you choose, the

following are options for large breed calves.1. Bottle Fed Method: Feed 3 quarts of high quality colostrum via nipple bottle

as soon as after birth as possible (within 1 hour) and repeat 12 hours later.2. Esophogeal Feeder Method: Feed 4 quarts of high quality colostrum by esophogeal feeder as soon after birth as possible (within 1 hour).

Calf ManagementColostrum Management

Quality Quantity Quickness Cleanliness


4 KEYS OF COLOSTRUM

Colostrum Management

Small Intestine

Blood System

Dorsal sac

Rumen Oesophagus

ReticulumOmasum

Ventral sac

Abomasum

Posteriorblind sacs

Pylorus

Dorsal sac

Rumen Oesophagus

ReticulumOmasum

Ventral sac

Abomasum

Posteriorblind sacs

Pylorus


QuicknessProviding colostrum quickly is important to the health of your newborn calf. Due to the sterile stomach calves are born with, it becomes a race between the bacteria in the environment and the antibodies in the colostrum. In the first hours of life, immunoglobulins (Ig) and other factors in colostrum are dissolved directly into the bloodstream of the calf. IgG protect bacteria from entering the blood (septicemia). IgG in the blood is slowly “re-secreted” back into the intestine to protect from diarrhea and pneumonia.

It is crucial that the first feeding of colostrum happens within the first hour after birth. IgG absorption declines rapidly after birth. Gut closure is complete by 24 hours. A research study demonstrated that only calves fed colostrum before 6 hours of age had serum IgG levels > 10 mg/ml (adequate colostrum).

CleanlinessColostrum cleanliness is important to calf health and performance. Ensuring that the

bacterial contamination is minimized, test colostrum, keeping the following goals in mind:Total Plate Count < 100,000 CFU/ml

Total Coliform Count < 10,000 CFU/ml

Calf ManagementColostrum Management

Guidelines for minimizing bacterial contamination are:1. Clean cow and udder prior to milking.2. Don’t let calf nurse dam.3. Collect colostrum in a sanitary manner and test for quality.4. Don’t pool colostrum.5. Chill or feed colostrum immediately after collection.6. Do not refrigerate (40° F) colostrum for more than 24 hours.7. Save good, quality colostrum by freezing in double bag, plastic

freezer bags, and label properly (Cow #, disease status, date, etc.).

COLOSTRUM DIGESTION

KEEP IN MIND

• Consider pasteurizing colostrum using a pasteurizer designed for colostrum

• Don’t use colostrum supplements for a total colostrum replacer


Colostrum Management

You have made sure your calf has been given high quality colostrum, has successful passive transfer, and is on the way to a healthy start. Now it is key to think about the pre-weaning nutrient requirements your calf has for rumen development. The main goal is to raise healthy calves efficiently and effectively to maximize calf health and performance.

There are three phases of development related to digestive function in the young calf.

KEEP IN MIND

Objectives during the pre-weaning period:1. Meet nutrient requirements for maintenance and

growth with calf milk replacer or whole milk.2. Stimulate and begin rumen development to meet

the calf’s nutrient requirements for growth which is accomplished with calf starter and water.

3. Prevent scours which can cause dehydration, lower growth rates and increase mortality rates.

Calf ManagementPre-Weaning Nutrition

Liquid Feeding Phase:All or essentially all of the nutrient requirements are met by colostrum, calf milk replacer, or milk.

Transition Phase: Liquid diet and calf starter both contribute to meeting the nutrient requirements of the calf.

Ruminant Phase:The calf derives all of its nutrients from solid feeds.

1 2 3


Pre-Weaning Nutrition


Rumen DevelopmentRumen development is important to the calf (biologically) and the calf raiser (economically). It does not occur magically; the process begins shortly after birth and can be regulated. The five factors required for rumen development are:

1. Substrate (feed)2. Liquid (water and saliva)3. Establishment of bacteria in the

rumen4. Absorption ability of the tissues

(papillae)5. Outflow of material from the

rumen (muscular action) Rumen by-pass

To achieve successful rumen development, calves need calf starter, free choice water, and calf milk replacer or milk. It is known that fermentation products in the rumen such as volatile fatty acids (butyric acid and propionic acid) are the main stimulants of rumen epithelium development. VFAs are believed to contribute to papillae development which is necessary to absorb nutrients.

KEEP IN MIND

• Nutrient requirements increase during times of stress• Clean, fresh, unfrozen water is required by all calves• The greater the ADG of the calf before weaning, the

greater their potential first lactation milk response• Calves with a well-developed rumen at weaning gain

more body weight with lower management and labor costs

• Take time to evaluate your pre-weaned calf feeding pro-gram to make sure you are reaching the nutrient needs of your calves

The Importance of Feeding Calf StarterOften the most overlooked, water is the most important nutrient. Fresh water is essential for optimal growth and consumption of dry feed. Calf milk replacer or milk cannot be considered water because it bypasses the rumen and reticulum until the calf is about 12 weeks old. Feeding water can increase body weight gain, starter intake and reduce scours.

Photos provided by Hoard’s Dairyman

Calf ManagementPre-Weaning Nutrition


MILK ONLY MILK, WATER, AND GRAIN MILK AND HAY

Pre-Weaning NutritionFeeding Programs

• Achieve breeding weight at an earlier age

• Potentially reduce Age at First Calving/increase Body Weight at Calving

• Increase potential for Internal Herd Growth

• Increase milk yield – For every 2.2 lbs of average daily gain prior to weaning (at least 42 to 56 days of age) heifers produce 1,150 pounds more milk in first lactation.

• Increase herd life

Potential Benefits of Full Growth Programs

WEANING GUIDELINES

With all the time and effort put into raising a healthy calf, make sure you are not losing ground by having a proper weaning protocol established. • Feed milk or milk replacer once a day at 6 to 7 weeks of age for an

entire week, then completely wean off of milk or milk replacer• Free choice fresh, unfrozen water and calf starter• Do not wean until consuming 1.5-2 pounds of starter for 3

consecutive days• Wean by the calf, NOT the calendar• Do not move, dehorn, castrate, change housing or feed while

weaning

Modified from VanAmburgh, 2006

Calf growth and health goals in a full growth program (modified from VanAmburgh, 2006)1. Double birth weight by 56 days, 90 lb

birth weight gain to 180 lbs by 56 days2. Increase hip height of 4-5 inches by 56

days3. Calf mortality less than 5%4. Calf morbidity (treatments) less than

10%

In recent years, VanAmburgh (Cornell) Drackley (Illinois) and James (Virginia-Tech) have researched and developed a FULL Growth Program allowing the calf to reach their genetic potential. These programs usually consist of feeding 2-2.5 pounds daily of a 26-20 calf milk replacer with a high protein calf starter (22%). Typically in a full growth program, calves are weaned at 7-8 weeks of age.

Conventional feeding programs usually consist of feeding 1 pound of a 20-20 calf milk replacer mixed in one gallon of water, fed daily with free choice calf starter. Even though calf feeding programs like this have been used since the 1950s, recent studies have shown these programs restrict the growth potential of the calf.

FULL GROWTHCONVENTIONAL FEEDING


The Principles to Good Calf Housing1. Avoid contact with older animals and their

environment (air, water, bedding, feed, pasture)2. Prohibit direct contact between calves3. Keep their environment draft-free but well ventilated4. Provide bedding that is clean, dry, and abundant5. Sanitation Clean and sanitize pens between uses Use “All in-all out” method6. Handle calves with ease (i.e. stress and injury free)

Calf ManagementHousing & SanitationKEEP IN MIND

Today, more and more producers are choosing group housing methods for their calves as it provides labor savings and other potential benefits for the operation. If this is something you are considering, the best management practices for group housing are:• Excellent colostrum management• Delay introduction (>12-14 days)• Small group sizes (<10 calves)• Do not restrict milk intake• Sanitation/monitoring/maintenance of feeding

equipment• Don’t overcrowd (>35-40 ft/calf )• Excellent ventilation, no drafts• Clean, dry, abundant bedding• Manage as all in-all out system• Careful, frequent observation of calves.


Housing & SanitationCALF HUTCHESAdvantagesNo calf-to-calf contactAll in-all outGood air qualityCan move to new ground

DisadvantagesOperator comfort (especially in Northern climates)

GROUP HOUSINGAdvantagesPotential labor savingsAllows use of free-choice or computerized feeding systemsOperator comfort

DisadvantagesPotential competition for resources (feed, space)Direct contact between calves (nose-to-nose, cross-suckling, shared nipple) allowing potential for increased disease

CONFINED HOUSINGAdvantagesOperator comfortFresh air in the summer when side curtains are open

DisadvantagesPotential direct contact between calvesOften poor air quality in winter when curtains are closedPathogen build-up

Note: Solid partitions are preferred as compared to open partitions.


Biosecurity from Birth to WeaningBiosecurity is management practices that prevent the introduction or spread of disease on the farm. Of all the animals on a dairy, the calves are the most vulnerable to infection and disease. The challenges are disease threats associated with calf scours and sec-ondary infections (i.e. respiratory problems). The onset of enteric diseases can occur at different times in a young calf’s life. Being aware of what your calves may be facing, can help you to establish a preventative plan.

Calf ManagementBiosecurity

The six diseases that can be transferred via non-pasteurized colostrum transition milk, whole milk, and waste milk are:

Methods of Transmission to Pre-Weaned CalfDisease/Pathogen Fecal/Oral Fecal/

NavelMilk Nasal/

SalivaIn Utero

E-Coli X X

Clostridium X

Rota & Corona Virus X

Cryptosporidia X

Coddidia X

Johne’s Disease X X X

Salmonella X X X X

Bovine Viral Diarrhea (BVD) X X X X

Bovine Leukosis Virus (BLV) 4 X X

Mycoplasma Bovis 2 X X

Infectious Mastitis 3 X X

1 “Milk is defined as colostrum or non-pasteurized transition, whole, or whole milk.2 Causes mycoplasma pneumonia, swollen joints, and inner ear infections.3 Caused by mycoplasma bovis, staph aureus, or strep. ag.4 Blood borne transmission is an important means of the spread of BLV.Note: Chart modified from BAMN, 2007.

Please note: Not only are these diseases transferred via non-pasteurized whole milk and colostrum, but also through other communicable ways.

1. Johne’s Disease2. Salmonella3. Bovine Viral Diarrhea (BVD)4. Bovine Leukosis Virus (BLV)5. Mycoplasma Bovis6. Infection/Mastitis

Age Distribution of Enteric Diseases in Calves

0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40

Coccidia

E. coli

Chronic E. coli

Clostridium

Roto-virus

Salmonella

Corona-virus

Cryptosporidia

Age (days)

Under 5 days (Acute enterotoxigenic)

Chronic colibacillosis, Birth to three months

5 to 10 days

1 to 2 weeks

2 to 6 weeks

Few days to a few weeks

21 days to 2 years

Dedrichson, 1993.


TRANSFER OF DISEASES


KEEP IN MIND

Good Biosecurity Management Practices help prevent the transfer of infectious diseases from animals to people. Please protect yourself and family by:• Wearing clean boots and clothing• Always washing your hands after working with calves• Restrict access by children and farm visits to calves

Key Management StepsThe basic management practices for the prevention of diseases in the calf are similar to those used for basic biosecurity management:

Calf Management

1 2

3

4

A Well-managed Dry Period• Allow an adequate period of

time (minimum of 6 weeks), for cows to replenish their reserves and store the level of antibodies in the colostrum necessary for protecting the calf

• Role of dry cow vaccination:i. Protects the calf from diseases that could be transferred through the placentaii. Helps produce high quality colostrum to help prevent key calf-hood diseasesiii. Take into account any specific health problems that are present on the dairy

Maternity Pen ManagementThe maternity pen is the highest priority area, it should be:• Clean and dry• Used by one animal at a time,

and cleaned & disinfected between calvings

• NOT used as a hospital pen• Separate from milking cows and

other older animals

Newborn Calf CareColostrum feeding and management:• Quantity, quality, quickness, and cleanliness of colostrum

feeding are critical to protecting the newborn calf• Know the health status of the dam. Do not use colostrum from

cows that are known Johne’s, BLV or BVD-PI positive• Separate the calf from the dam as soon as possible

Pre-weaning Management• Put calf in a dry and draft-free environment. Be aware of their

environment to prevent manure transfer (via equipment, people, feed)

• Restrict visitors; insist that visitors wear clean clothing and clean and sanitized boots (have a supply of disposable boots on hand)

• When working with groups of animals, always work with younger animals first (never work older to younger)

• Feed milk replacer or properly pasteurized whole/waste milk• Clean, sanitize and dry all feeding equipment after use• Provide palatable, high quality calf starter on a free-choice basis

as early as four days of age. Do not use “waste” feed from older animals

• Provide clean, fresh, unfrozen water at all times• Make weaning as stress-free as possible (minimize

management changes)

Biosecurity


Maternity Pen ManagementThe maternity pen is the highest priority area, it should be:• Clean and dry• Used by one animal at a time,

and cleaned & disinfected between calvings

• NOT used as a hospital pen• Separate from milking cows and

other older animals


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DairyProductsTechMix

Contact your TechMix Representative for a copy of the TechMix Dairy Catalog.

Focus on DairyTechMix has created a program for Dairy Cows to take them through periods of transition and to ensure that they receive optimum nutrition. Contact your TechMix Representative for more information.

DAIRY PRODUCTS

Learn more about calf health and nutrition by visiting our website.

www.techmixglobal.com

For over 30 years, TechMix has specialized in developing health and nutrition products that provide the right mix of nutrients when they’re needed most. Through years of on-site visits and discussions with producers, we’ve learned that there are three main tasks that impact calf health:

1. Keep them clean2. Keep them dry3. Feed them

When it comes to feeding and nutrition, TechMix is here to help. We are commited to developing and manufacturing high-impact calf nutrition products. Contact your TechMix Representative today to start or review your calf health plan.

Commitment to CalvesCommitment to You

TechMix CorporateEmail: [email protected]: (877) 466-6455

P.O. Box 221740 Bowman StreetStewart, MN 55385

TechMix NutritionEmail: [email protected]: (573) 819-0480

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TechMix Calf Catalog