Topics:
Animal Refresher, Dairy Science
Primary Function of Colostrum Feeding in Calves
The primary function of colostrum feeding in calves is:
- To fortify calf's disease resistance — Correct Answer
- Act as laxative and clear the meconium
- Accelerate weight gain in calf
- Provide energy for thermoregulation
Explanation:
Correct Answer: To fortify calf's disease resistance
The primary function of colostrum feeding in calves is to fortify the calf's disease resistance by providing immunoglobulins (passive immunity). Since ruminant placenta (syndesmochorial type) does not allow transfer of maternal antibodies, the calf is born immunocompromised and entirely dependent on colostrum.
All Benefits of Colostrum Feeding
- ✔ Provides passive immunity (IgG, IgM, IgA — primarily IgG)
- ✔ Acts as a laxative to clear meconium (first faeces)
- ✔ Rich in Vitamin A (5–15× normal milk)
- ✔ Contains trypsin inhibitor protecting immunoglobulins from GIT digestion
- ✔ Higher fat and total solids than normal milk
Important Protocol
- Colostrum should be fed within 6–12 hours of birth (before gut closure begins).
- Fed @ 10% of body weight daily for the first 3–4 days.
Why Other Options Are Wrong
- Act as laxative → this is a secondary benefit, not the primary function.
- Accelerate weight gain → not the primary reason; energy content is not the key goal.
- Thermoregulation → not a documented primary function of colostrum feeding.
📚 About this Topic — Animal Refresher
This multiple choice question is from Animal Refresher, Dairy Science. It has 4 options with a detailed explanation of the correct answer. Practice more MCQs from Animal Refresher to strengthen your preparation.
