Authors : Mohammad Bojarpour, Ali Nargeskhani and Mohammad Reza Ghorbani
Abstract: Twenty four Holstein calves (initial BW = 40±3 kg) were used to investigated the effects of weaning age on the growth rate and starter intake. Calves remained in individual pens until the conclusion of the study. Calves received whole milk twice daily while water and starter were offered for ad libitum intake throughout the trial. Calves were randomly assigned at 8 weeks of age to one of two treatments: 12 Calves were weaned at 8 weeks of age, 12 Calves were offered milk until 13 weeks of age. From birth to 8 weeks of age starter intake were measured daily. From 8-13 weeks of age starter intake were measured weekly while body weight was measured at birth and weekly during the experimental period. Data indicate that one week post weaning, Average Daily Gain (ADG) was significantly (p<0.05) greater in dairy calves than in those weaned at 8 weeks. However from 10-13 weeks the ADG of weaned and dairy calves were not significantly different. The survey of weekly Dry Matter Intake (DMI) illustrated that while there were no differences at 8 and 9 weeks, the calves that were weaned at 8 weeks had a significantly greater DMI (p<0.01) during 10 weeks through to 13 than dairy calves.
Mohammad Bojarpour, Ali Nargeskhani and Mohammad Reza Ghorbani, 2010. Effects of Weaning Age on the Growth and Starter Intake in Holstein Calves. Journal of Animal and Veterinary Advances, 9: 1469-1471.