Authors : Feyzi Ugur , Mine Dosay Akbulut and Mete Yanar
Abstract: With this study, it was aimed to form a breeding schedule, suggesting to weaning the calves at 35 days age and at the most suitable live weight. Brown Swiss calves weaned at 35 days age were separated into three groups. Calf groups which gained 10-20, 21-29 and 30-50% live weight based on birth weight at weaning time were named as G1, G2 and G3, respectively. The average weight gain of the groups between birth and weaning periods, were obtained as 15.2�1.9, 25.9�2.4 and 40.3�1.9%, respectively (p = 0.00). The effects of the groups on daily weight gains in the periods between birth and 6 months were found insignificant (p = 0.11). Similarly, the effect of the groups on total gains in body measurements in the periods between weaning and four months were also found insignificant. As a result, the growth performance of the Brown Swiss, weaned with gaining averagely 15.2, 25.9 and 40.3% weight compare to their birth weight, at 35 days age, were found similar.
Feyzi Ugur , Mine Dosay Akbulut and Mete Yanar , 2008. A Study on the Development of the Schedule for Early Weaning of the Brown Swiss Calves at Suitable Live Weight. Journal of Animal and Veterinary Advances, 7: 728-730.