Key points of feeding and management of newborn calves in winter

Newborn calves generally refer to calves born within 7 days, when the tissues and organs of calves are not fully developed, the resistance to the surrounding adverse environment is poor, the nervous system is not developed, the thermoregulation ability is poor, and the digestive function is weak. Extensive feeding and management can easily lead to illness and death of newborn calves, especially in winter and cold weather, so it is more important to strengthen the feeding and management of calves.

First, keep warm against the cold. The most suitable temperature of the calf house is 15-20 degrees and the humidity is 65%. Therefore, it is necessary to do a good job of wind and cold protection before winter, seal some fine seams to prevent the invasion of the thief wind, place the corresponding heating equipment, the cushion should be thick and dry, and should be replaced in time. Pay attention to keep the vents and ventilate when the weather is good.

Second, cut the umbilical cord and clear the mucus. After the calf is born, the midwife should deal with the umbilical cord in time. Usually, the umbilical cord of the calf will be torn off naturally. When not torn, cut the umbilical cord 6-8 cm away from the abdomen with sterilized scissors, squeeze the blood and mucus in the umbilical cord, disinfect it with 5% iodine tincture, do not bandage the broken umbilical cord, tie a small buckle and let it fall off naturally. The mucus on the calf is best licked dry by the cow to increase the relationship between mother and son, but the mucus in the mouth and nose should be removed with a towel. Peel off the calf's soft hoofs to help it stand.

Third, eat colostrum as soon as possible. After the calf is born, try to let it eat colostrum within half an hour, because colostrum contains more maternal antibodies, which can enhance the calf's resistance to disease. Frail calves should be artificially assisted with breast-feeding until they can eat milk.

Fourth, check the placenta. After checking whether the cow's placenta is normal, remove the placenta immediately to prevent the cow from eating it.

Fifth, weighing and filing. Calves should be weighed before eating colostrum after birth. Register parents and their own name, date, birth weight, characteristics, etc., and establish a good breeding file.

Sixth, strengthen management. Keep the barn clean and hygienic, clean the barn regularly and disinfect it regularly. Do frequent cleaning, frequent observation, frequent change of bedding, at least once a day, it is strictly forbidden to wash with cold water. Long Zhaohui