Most of the focus during the dry period is on preparing the cow for calving and her next lactation. However, emerging research suggests that dry cow ketones may also influence the calf’s rumen development and future performance. One important indicator is BHB (β-hydroxybutyrate), a ketone produced when cows experience negative energy balance. Even when cows […]

Get Ready for Total Calf 2026! Good Calves Don’t Happen by Accident-Unlocking Lifetime Value in Every Calf Following the success of last year’s Total Calf conference series, Total Calf is returning this October with an expanded line-up of practical calf-focused events across the UK and Northern Ireland.

Evidence-based practical guidance for dairy calf health, immunity, and performance  Inside this guide: ✔ Colostrum protocols✔ Transition milk research✔ Feeding schedules✔ Hygiene SOPs✔ Passive transfer monitoring✔ Practical calf health recommendations 1. Why Colostrum Matters Calves are born with little or no immunity and depend entirely on colostrum for passive transfer of antibodies. Good colostrum management […]

Turning autumn-born calves out to grass for the first time sets the tone for the grazing season. A gradual, well-managed introduction—using small areas, steady feeding, and calm weather—helps calves settle outdoors without stress and protects health and growth in early grazing.

All the questions and answers from Dairy-Tech 2024, from weaning to how to prevent bullying behaviour amongst your calves.

Explore how the calf gut transforms from monogastric to ruminant, and why early starter feed, VFAs and microbiome colonisation are key to rumen growth, health and performance.

Colostrum remains the calf’s first line of defence. High immunoglobulin (IgG) levels are critical, but achieving and maintaining them depends on multiple factors, including dry cow nutrition, timing of collection, storage temperature, and hygiene.

Lumpy skin disease (LSD) is a notifiable viral disease in cattle and water buffalo, spread mainly by biting insects. While it poses no risk to humans, LSD can cause severe economic losses through reduced milk production, trade restrictions, and cattle deaths. Learn about its symptoms, prevention, and control measures.

Once-a-day (OAD) milk feeding is not just a labour-saving method suitable for healthy calves from 28 days of age, this system also promotes earlier rumen development, prepares calves for weaning and makes more time for calf husbandry.

Flies can cause serious stress, disease, and productivity loss in young calves during the summer months. This guide covers effective fly control for calves using hygiene, traps, and natural solutions like garlic supplementation to help protect your youngstock and maintain animal health.