Calves on many farms are now old enough to transition to once-a-day (OAD) feeding, which can reduce the workload considerably on farms. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
During the spring period, the feeding of calves and milking of cows are two jobs that take up a significant amount of time. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Most dairy farms now have a significant number of calves on the ground, which means that feeding may be taking a considerable amount of time. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
As surplus calves are gradually sold off farm, the number of calves being fed twice a day (TAD) should reduce. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Before moving calves to OAD feeding, it is important that they are 28-days-old or older, as a calf younger than this will be unable to consume the levels of milk required.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It is also important to ensure that any calves that are being moved to OAD feeding are in good health, and are showing no signs of illness. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The moving of calves from TAD to OAD feeding can reduce the workload associated with them by 36%. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Research has also shown that it can enhance early rumen development, due to increased amounts of concentrates and straw\/hay consumed by the calf.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Calves that have been moved onto a OAD programme should have access to ad-lib concentrates, fresh hay and clean water.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You will need to monitor calves twice daily, so it is advised that you feed them milk in the morning and then replace their concentrates in the evening. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The time-saving aspect of OAD feeding comes from the reduced time spent mixing replacer, feeding calves and cleaning equipment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Failing to monitor calves enough could result in sick animals going unnoticed for a extended period of time and the impact of the illness increasing. <\/p>\n\n\n\n