Topics:
Animal Nutrition, Animal Refresher
Rate of Colostrum Feeding
Colostrum feeding in calf is done at the rate of:
- 5% of body weight
- 10% of body weight — Correct Answer
- 15% of body weight
- 20% of body weight
Explanation:
Correct Answer: 10% of body weight
Colostrum feeding in calves should be done at the rate of 10% of body weight within the first 6–12 hours of birth. For a 40 kg calf, this equals 4 litres of colostrum — critical for passive immunity transfer (IgG antibodies).
Colostrum Feeding Guidelines for Calves
| Parameter | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Rate of feeding | 10% of body weight per day |
| Time of first feeding | Within 1–6 hours of birth (ideally 1–2 hrs) |
| Duration of colostrum feeding | First 3–4 days of life |
| Window for IgG absorption | First 24 hours (gut closure occurs at ~24–36 hrs) |
Importance of Colostrum
- Rich in Immunoglobulins (IgG, IgA, IgM) — provides passive immunity to the newborn.
- Contains Vitamin A, D, E in concentrated amounts.
- Acts as a laxative — helps expel meconium (first faeces).
- Contains growth factors, lysozymes, and lactoferrin for gut development.
Why Other Options Are Wrong
- 5% of body weight → too low; would not provide adequate immunoglobulins.
- 15% of body weight → excessive; may cause digestive upset.
- 20% of body weight → far too high; risk of abomasal bloat and diarrhoea.
📚 About this Topic — Animal Nutrition
This multiple choice question is from Animal Nutrition, Animal Refresher. It has 4 options with a detailed explanation of the correct answer. Practice more MCQs from Animal Nutrition to strengthen your preparation.
