CAL: Underperformance in Dairy Heifers

Question 1

Aim for age at first calving? Problems with calving sooner or later?

Answer 1

• 24 months
  >24 older = wasted time when not being productive
  v productivity in 1st and subsequent lactations, ^ risk dystocia and metabolic problems

Question 2

Optimum weight to serve heifers

Answer 2

400kg

Question 3

Min space allowance per

Answer 3

1. 5m2 legally

- recommendation

Question 4

Which floor space values should be used to calculate stocking density?

Answer 4

Indoor - this is where calves will huddle if cold etc

Question 5

Is under stocking good?

Answer 5

No can also be a problem -> lack of heat and lack of ventilation

Question 6

How many cubicles would be left free at any time?

Answer 6

10%

Question 7

What serum IgG is considered adequate colostrum intake?

Answer 7

> 1000mg/dl

Question 8

What serum TP ia considered adequate colostrum intake?

Answer 8

> 5.2g/dl in a healthy calf

>5.5g/dl in an ill calf (dehydration will falsely raise TP values so low values may appear normal)

Question 9

When should serum TP values be collected?

Answer 9

first week of life

Question 10

At a herd level, what prevalence of FPT is considered a problem?

Answer 10

30% herd problem