Pasteurisation machines also standardise the calf feeding regime, which is particularly helpful when more than one person is involved with the task. Milk can be pre-cooled, pasteurised and reheated to the optimum temperature at the touch of a button. The most hygienic options within the range of pasteurisation machines available operate a water bath action, with colostrum and milk reheated in bags, which are then attached to a teat for easy feeding. Water bath pasteurisers are easier to clean, compared with systems where the liquid comes into direct contact with the equipment.


‘ Calf coats


Calf coats are used extensively in herds in the USA and Canada and they are gaining favour within UK herds. It comes down to common sense. We would not go outside in a


T-shirt and a pair of shorts in the winter, but this is the equivalent of the conditions that dairy calves may have to cope with during cold weather.


The provision of a calf coat for the first three weeks of life has been shown in studies to improve body condition and growth rates. It should be put on as soon as a new-born calf is dry and it can be left on throughout this period, after which the calf will become more tolerant of lower temperatures.


But, the choice of calf coat needs careful consideration. There are several different types of calf coat on the market. The material must allow body moisture out, to minimise sweating. The design should


118 THE JOURNAL DECEMBER 2014 Rumen development


Encouraging rumen development is vital for calf health and is even more critical in the winter months. Efficient rumen fermentation produces heat, which can help keep the calf comfortable. It has been calculated that rumen function contributes as much as 50% of the heat produced by the animal’s body.


A calf which is feeling cold will suffer from stress and will start to shiver. The body will respond by boosting cortisol levels, which suppress the immune system and makes it more vulnerable to infections, including pneumonia and scouring.


Navel treatment


Navel-dipping or spraying is an important element of new born calf care and calves should be treated soon after birth, using a strong, alcohol-based iodine. The task should be repeated at least twice during the first couple of days.


It comes down to common sense. We would not go outside in a T-shirt and a pair of shorts in the winter


feature a neck strap, as well as straps that go around the hind legs. Coats with straps under the belly should be avoided, as they can become soiled and increase the risk of navel infection. After use, the coats should be soaked in a disinfectant and machine- washed.


’ Winter calf care tips


Calves should also have access to clean drinking water from a young age. A dry bed is essential – a wooden slatted floor will help with drainage and should be topped with plenty of fresh straw. Pens for young calves should be at least 1.2sq m per calf and each calf will require 10cu m of air space.


Calf buildings should feature an air inlet and an air outlet, with electric fans used as back-up on still days.


Opening up a ridge in the roof is useful way of removing moist air from the building. The size of the opening should be calculated using a guideline of 1sq m/20 calves. Air inlet spaces should set at about three times this figure. Buildings which take account of these recommendations will achieve what is known as the ‘stack effect,’ where the air is pressurised and circulates freely. Over- stocking in the calf shed can increase disease risk, while under-stocking will reduce the level of heat rising from the building and limit air flow.


Shed floors with built-in drainage should be sloped at 1:10, away from the pens. A healthy micro-climate in the air immediately surrounding the calf can be achieved by using a partial platform at the back of the pen, to prevent down draught. Calf hutches can reduce disease risk, but they must be disinfected and moved between batches.


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