Pre- and post-weaning performance and health of heifer calves fed different levels of bovine spray dried animal plasma in a traditional milk replacer program
S. Hayes1, D. Carlson2, D. Ziegler3, M. Raeth-Knight4, G. Golombeski4, B. Ziegler5, R. Larson5, J. Linn4, and H. Chester-Jones3
Holstein heifer calves (n=120; 2 to 4 d of age; 40.4 kg ± 0.68 kg) were randomly assigned to 1 of 4 different milk replacers (MR; 20% protein, 20% fat) in November 2007 to develop feeding programs that targeted the use of spray-dried animal plasma (SDP) in MR. Calves were housed in 2.29 x 1.17 m individual calf pens within a frame-steel curtain side-wall naturally ventilated barn. Treatments (Trt) were:- 1) All-milk (AM) protein medicated MR fed at 0.284 kg in 1.99 L water (12.5% solids) 2X daily for the first 35 d and 1X daily from d 36 to weaning at 42 d (CON); 2) Medicated MR with 4% inclusion of SDP fed as in Trt 1 (SDP4); 3) Medicated MR with 8% inclusion of SDP fed as in Trt 1 (SDP8); 4) Same as Trt 3 with additional amino acids (SDP8AA). Calves were fed an 18% CP (as-fed) texturized calf starter and had access to fresh water. Total DMI from MR averaged 22.9 kg. Average daily gain (ADG) pre-weaning (0.56 kg/d), ADG post weaning (0.99 kg), total d 1 to 56 (0.67 kg/d) and hip height gain (9.9 cm) were not affected (P>0.05) by MR program. Pre-weaning and total calf starter dry matter intake were 21 and 12.2% greater (P<0.05), respectively, for SDP8AA calves vs. those fed the other MR programs. Calves fed SDP8 had 4.2% greater feed efficiency (P<0.04) than those fed SDP8AA but similar to calves on other MR programs. There were no Trt differences in health parameters. Under the conditions of this study, inclusion of 4 or 8% SDP in a 20:20 milk replacer resulted in similar calf performance and health to those fed an all-milk protein milk replacer. The addition of amino acids to milk replacer formulated with 8% SDP increased starter intake but not calf growth.
1APC, Inc., Ankeny, IA
2Milk Products, Chilton, WI
3Southern Research and Outreach Center, University of Minnesota, Waseca
4Department of Animal Science, University of Minnesota, St. Paul
5Hubbard Feeds, Inc., Mankato, MN
Impact of glycerol in milk replacer on dairy calf performance
M. Raeth-Knight1, J. Linn1, R. Larson2, and J. Salzer1
The objective of our study was to evaluate the impact of adding glycerol to milk replacer (MR), as a partial replacement for lactose, on calf performance and health. Following birth, thirty-four Holstein or Holstein crossbred calves were blocked by sex and breed and randomly assigned to 1 of 2 MR treatments for 70 d. Treatments were MR without glycerol supplementation (CON) or MR with glycerol added at 35% of the total DM (G). Calves were born November to December of 2007 and were individually housed in outdoor hutches. Colostrum was fed twice daily the first two d following birth. Calves assigned to the CON treatment were offered a 20% protein: 20% fat MR (42.7% lactose) at 0.32 kg MR DM twice daily from 3 to 36 d of age and then once daily from d 37 to weaning at d 42. A 30% protein: 30% fat MR (23.2% lactose) was fed to calves on the G treatment. Calves were offered 0.22 kg MR DM and 0.11 kg glycerol (DM basis) twice daily d 3 to 36 and then once daily d 37 until weaning at d 42. The CON and G MR were mixed with water to contain 15.2% solids and glycerol was added to the G MR after being reconstituted with water. Starter (18% CP) and water were offered ad libitum starting d 3. Feed intake was recorded daily. Body weight was recorded at birth and 14, 28, 42, 56 and 70 d of age. Hip height was measured at birth and d 70. Fecal scores were observed daily and blood samples were taken on d 21 and 56. There was no difference in MR, starter or total DM intake across treatments. Calves consumed 0.59 kg/d MR and 1.06 kg/d starter DM pre-weaning (d 1 to 42) and 3.10 kg/d starter DM post-weaning (d 43 to 70). Average daily gain was also similar with calves gaining 0.59 and 1.01 kg/d pre- and post-weaning, respectively. There was no difference in stature growth with calves gaining 15.2 cm in hip height d 1 to 70. Blood glucose concentration was 10.4 mg/dl higher for CON compared to G calves on d 21 however not different at d 42. Fecal scores indicated no impact of MR treatments on fecal consistency with an average fecal score of 1.1 pre-weaning across treatments. Under the conditions of this study, glycerol replaced approximately 46% of lactose in MR without negatively impacting calf growth or health.
1University of Minnesota, St. Paul
2Hubbard Feeds, Mankato, MN
Performance of post weaned Holstein heifer calves fed limit or free-choice pelleted grain mixes with two differing fiber levels along with free-choice hay
D. Ziegler1, R. Larson2, B. Ziegler2, M. Raeth-Knight3, G. Golombeski3, H. Chester-Jones1, and J. Linn3
Ninety-six heifer calves (85.5 ± 1.73 kg BW) were used in a 112-d study to evaluate feed intake and performance from 9 to 25 wk of-age. Heifers were randomly assigned to 1 of 4 diets among 4 replicated pens/treatment (6 heifers/pen). Treatments (Trt) were:- 1) 16% CP (as fed) grain mix (66.25% cracked corn, 32.5% pellet, 1.25% tallow) fed at 2.72 kg/d for 28 d and 2.27 kg/d from d 29 to 112 with free-choice (FC) hay (CON); 2) 16% CP high fiber (19.9% ADF; 37.8% NDF, DM basis) pelleted grain mix limit-fed as CON with FC hay (LFHF); 3) High fiber pelleted grain mix as in Trt 2 fed FC with FC hay for 84 d and then switched to CON with FC hay from d 85 to 112 (FCHF); 4) Medium fiber (11.1% ADF; 32.5% NDF, DM basis) pelleted grain mix fed for 84 d as Trt 3 and switched to CON d 85 to 112 (FCMF). Daily gain d 1 to 84 was the highest (P<0.05) for heifers fed FCHF (1.16 kg/d) vs. other heifers groups (0.95 kg/d), which were similar. Grain and hay intake d 1 to 84 averaged 2.18, 1.73; 2.18, 1.64; 3.96, 0.64; 3.64 and 0.59 kg for heifers fed CON, LFHF, FCHF and FCMF diets, respectively. Overall 112 d average daily gain (1.10 kg) and hip height gain (22.1 cm) were the highest (P<0.05) for FCHF heifers with the other heifer groups being similar (av. 0.93 kg and 18.9 cm). Total DMI expressed as a percentage of body weight was the lowest (P<0.05) for CON and LFHF heifers d 1 to 84 and FCHF heifers d 85 to 112. There were no overall differences in feed/gain. Under the conditions of this study, feeding FC hay with FCHF pellet mix resulted in gain and growth advantages when compared to heifers fed FCMF, LFHF or CON for 84 days without excessive body condition. This advantage was maintained from d 85 to 112 when heifers were on a common diet.
1Southern Research and Outreach Center, University of Minnesota, Waseca
2Hubbard Feeds, Inc., Mankato, MN
3Department of Animal Science, University of Minnesota, St. Paul
- 2008 -
Performance and growth of young Holstein dairy heifers limit-fed diets based on body weight
H. Chester-Jones1, D. Ziegler1, R. Larson2, B. Ziegler2, M. Raeth-Knight3, and G. Golombeski3
Ninety dairy heifers (91.68 ± 0.72 kg BW) were used in a 112-d study to evaluate feed efficiency and performance from 9 to 25 weeks of-age when reducing total DMI as a % of BW below an expected 3% or greater shown from previous studies. Heifers were housed in 9.14 x 4.57 m pens (6 heifers/pen) within a naturally ventilated bedded-pack pole barn and randomly assigned to 1 of 3 grower diets among 5 replicated pens/treatment. Treatments (Trt) were: 1) 18% CP grain mix control (58.75% cracked corn, 40% pellet, 1.25% tallow) fed at 2.72 kg/d for
28 d and 2.27 kg/d from d 29 to 112 with access to free choice (FC) 15.24% CP (DM basis) hay (CON); 2) 18% CP grain mix fed as for CON with limit hay feeding based on cumulative DMI of grain and hay to equal 3% of projected BW by 14-d periods (3DMI); 3) 18% CP grain mix fed at 2.72 kg/d for 14 d, 2.39 kg/d from d 15-28 and 2.05 kg/d d 29-112 with limit hay feeding based on cumulative DMI of grain and hay to equal 2.7% of projected BW by 14-d periods (2.7DMI). Initial BW and estimated daily gains were based on previous studies of 0.98, 1.07, 1.09, 1.0, 1.0, 0.98 and 0.93 kg by 14-d periods and were used to project period BW. Total DMI and DMI as a % of BW were lowest (P<.05) for heifers fed 2.7DMI for each 14-d period from d 15 to 112 except d 29-42 when CON had similar DMI to 2.7DMI (P>0.05). Total DMI d 1-112 were 8.5 and 8.9% less for 2.7DMI than heifers fed 3DMI and CON, respectively. Overall 112 d daily gain was lowest (0.99 kg; P<0.05) for 2.7DMI heifers being 5.7 (1.05 kg) and 9.2% (1.09 kg) less than those fed 3DMI and CON, respectively. There were no Trt differences (P>0.05) in feed/gain. Although limit feeding young heifers under the conditions of this study did not improve feed efficiency, it did offer acceptable growth and body weight gain. Further research on optimum hay quality when limit feeding is needed.
1Southern Research and Outreach Center, University of Minnesota, Waseca
2Hubbard Feeds, Mankato, MN
3Department of Animal Science, University of Minnesota, St. Paul
Pre- and post weaning performance and health of calves fed milk replacers supplemented with trace minerals from differing sources
G. Golombeski1, S. Hayes2, M. Raeth-Knight1, B. Ziegler3, R. Larson3, D. Ziegler4, H. Chester-Jones4, and J. Linn1
One hundred-seven 2 to 4 day-old dairy heifer calves (40.1 ± 0.61 kg) were randomly assigned to one of 3 medicated, all-milk protein (20% protein:20% fat) milk replacers (MR) with supplemental trace mineral treatments to evaluate their effect on pre- and post weaning calf performance and health. Calves were housed in 2.29 × 1.17 m individual calf pens, within a curtain side-wall, naturally ventilated barn. Treatments were: 1) MR control containing inorganic trace minerals (INORGMR); 2) MR containing organic trace minerals (ORGMR); 3) ORGMR with organic selenium (Se; ORGSEMR). Milk replacers were fed at 0.284 kg (as-fed) in 1.99 L water 2X daily for the first 35 d, then 1X daily from d 36 to weaning at 42 d. Calves were offered a 21.4% CP (DM basis) texturized calf starter (CS) free choice and had access to fresh water at all times. Total DMI from MR for 42 d averaged 20.56 kg/calf. There were no pre- and post weaning performance differences by treatments (P>0.05). Pre-weaning total DMI, gain and feed/gain averaged 37.23, 21.33, and 1.83 kg, respectively. Post weaning CS DMI, gain, and feed/gain averaged 25.60, 12.70 and 2.02 kg, respectively. Overall 56-d daily gain and feed/gain averaged 0.61 and 1.91 kg, respectively. Hip height gain was greater (P<0.02) for calves fed ORGMR vs. those fed INORGMR. Calves fed ORGSEMR had higher (P <0.03) serum Se on d 14 compared to those fed ORGMR with INORGMR being intermediate. Health treatment costs/calf were similar across treatments. Under the conditions of this study, feeding a MR containing organic trace minerals with or without organic Se did not affect pre- and immediate post weaning calf performance and health compared to calves fed MR with inorganic trace minerals.
1Department of Animal Science, University of Minnesota, St. Paul
2Milk Products, Chilton, WI
3Hubbard Feeds, Mankato, MN
4Southern Research and Outreach Center, University of Minnesota, Waseca
Pre- and post weaning performance and health of calves fed different milk replacer programs using non-medicated additives and different feeding rates
S. Hayes1, B. Ziegler2, R. Larson2, D. Ziegler3, H. Chester-Jones3, M. Raeth-Knight4, J. Linn4, and G.
Golombeski4
One hundred-twenty-five 2 to 4 d-old dairy heifer calves (42.7 ± 0.84 kg) were randomly assigned to one of 5 medicated (20% protein:20% fat) milk replacer (MR) programs to evaluate their effect on pre- (42 d) and post weaning (43-56 d) calf performance and health. Calves were housed in individual calf pens within a curtain side-wall, naturally ventilated barn. Treatments (Trt) were: 1) All-milk protein MR (control) fed at 0.284 kg (as-fed) in 1.99 L water 2X daily for 35 d, and then 1X daily from 36 to 42 d (MRC); 2) MRC fed as in Trt 1 for 21 d then reduced at d 22 to 1X daily at 0.46 kg in 3.18 L water to d 35, then 0.23 kg in 1.59 L water from 36 to 42 d; 3) MR including 5% spray-dried animal plasma and nutritional additives (APL) fed as Trt 1 for 21 d, then switched to MRC from 22 to 42 d fed same as Trt 1; 4) APL MR fed for 21 d as in Trt 3, then MRC fed 1X daily from 22 to 42 d as in Trt 2; 5) APL MR fed for 21 d as in Trt 3, then MRC fed at 0.23 kg 2X daily in 1.82 L water from 22 to 35 d, and 1X daily from d 36 to 42 d. Calves were offered a 21.2% CP (DM basis) texturized calf starter (CS) free choice with access to fresh water at all times. Total DMI from MR for 42 d averaged 22.72 kg/calf for Trt 1 & 3 and 20.76 kg/calf for Trt 2, 4, & 5. Milk replacer programs did not affect CS DMI or calf performance (P>0.05). Overall 56-d daily gain and feed/gain averaged 0.69 and 1.89 kg, respectively. Under the conditions of this study, strategies to reduce MR feeding rate and/or the number of MR feedings resulted in similar performance and health compared to the control calves. Calves fed MR supplemented with APL showed similar performance and health to calves fed all milk protein milk replacers.
1Milk Products, Chilton, WI
2Hubbard Feeds, Mankato, MN
3Southern Research and Outreach Center, University of Minnesota, Waseca
4Department of Animal Science, University of Minnesota, St. Paul
Performance and growth of Holstein dairy heifers fed grain mixes supplemented with differing protein and non-protein nitrogen sources
R. Larson1, B. Ziegler1, M. Raeth-Knight2, G. Golombeski2, J. Linn2, H. Chester-Jones3, and D. Ziegler3
Ninety dairy heifers (88.3 ± 1.73 kg BW) were used in a 112-d study to evaluate feed intake and performance from 9 to 25 weeks of-age. Heifers were housed in 9.14 × 4.57 m pens (6 heifers/pen) within a naturally ventilated bedded-pack pole barn and randomly assigned to 1 of 3 grower diets among 5 replicated pens/treatment. Treatments (Trt) were: 1) 16% CP grain mix (66.25% cracked corn, 32.5% pellet, 1.25% tallow) fed at 2.72 kg/d for 28 d and 2.27 kg/d from d 29 to 112 (CON); 2) Same as CON Trt with 1.01% urea in the grain mix (UREA); 3) Same as CON Trt with 6.01% rumen fermentation enhancer (FERMENTEN®; 43% CP, as-fed; FERM). Each treatment group was offered a 16.6% CP (as-fed) hay free choice (FC) for the duration of the trial. During the first 28 d, heifers fed UREA had lower (P< 0.05) daily gains than those fed CON, with FERM heifers being similar to the other groups. Heifer performance was similar across all groups from d 29 to 112 (P>0.05). Overall 112 d gain was higher (P<0.05) for CON heifers (1.08 kg/d) compared to those fed UREA (1.02 kg/d), with FERM heifers being intermediate (1.04 kg/d). There were no overall differences in total DMI, DMI as a percentage of BW, feed/gain or body condition score change (P>0.05) which averaged 4.24 kg/d, 3.26%, 4.02 kg/kg gain and +0.80, respectively. Under the conditions of this study, heifers limit-fed a 16% CP grain mix containing urea (average 0.024 kg/heifer daily) with FC hay had lower overall gains from 9 to 25 weeks of-age than those fed a grain mix without urea mainly due to the first 28 d of the study. Including a rumen fermentation enhancer in the grain mix
(FERMENTEN®; average 0.14 kg/heifer daily) did not improve heifer performance.
1Hubbard Feeds, Mankato, MN
2Department of Animal Science, University of Minnesota, St. Paul
3Southern Research and Outreach Center, University of Minnesota, Waseca
Pre- and post weaning performance and health of calves fed texturized calf starters with different processed corn or on a different milk replacer feeding schedule
B. Ziegler1, R. Larson1, D. Ziegler2, H. Chester-Jones2, M. Raeth-Knight3, G. Golombeski3, and J. Linn3
One hundred-eight 2 to 4 d-old dairy heifer calves (40.5 ± 0.81 kg) were randomly assigned to one of 4 treatments to evaluate their effect on pre-(42 d) and post weaning (d 43-56) calf performance and health. Calves were housed in 2.29 × 1.17 m individual calf pens, within a frame-steel curtain side-wall, naturally ventilated barn. All calves were fed a 20% fat, 20% protein all-milk protein medicated milk replacer (MR) with 19.7% CP (DM basis) calf starters (CS) fed free choice with access to fresh water. Treatments (Trt) were: 1) Texturized calf starter (CS) based on steam flaked corn, pellet and oats (SF); 2) CS based on whole corn and pellet (WC); 3) CS based on roasted corn, pellet and oats (RC); and 4) CS as in Trt 3 but fed a different MR feeding schedule (RC1X). Treatment 1, 2 and 3 calves were fed MR at 0.284 kg (as-fed) in 1.99 L water 2X daily for the first 35 d, then 1X daily from d 36 to 42 d. Treatment 4 calves were fed as the other calf groups for d 1-14 then offered 0.568 kg MR (as-fed) in 3.98 L water 1X daily from d 15-35 and 0.284 kg in 1.99 L water from 36 to 42 d. There was no effect on calf performance due to CS fed during the first 28 d (P>0.05). During d 29-42, calves fed WC gained less (P<0.05) than those fed RC. Calves fed WC had the lowest CS DMI (P<0.05) during d 29-42. There were no Trt differences (P>0.05) in overall pre-weaning calf performance. Overall 56 d calf performance was similar (P>0.05). Daily gain and feed/gain averaged 0.66 and 1.98 kg, respectively. Under the conditions of this study, overall calf performance and health were not affected by corn form in the CS or milk feeding schedule. Once a-day milk feeding did not change CS intake as was anticipated.
1Hubbard Feeds, Mankato, MN
2Southern Research and Outreach Center, University of Minnesota, Waseca
3Department of Animal Science, University of Minnesota, St. Paul
Performance of post weaned Holstein heifer calves transitioned to group housing using different management strategies while fed a common diet>
D. Ziegler1, B. Ziegler2, M. Raeth-Knight3, R. Larson2, G. Golombeski3, J. Linn3, and H. Chester-Jones1
Our objective was to evaluate the impact of three 14-d post-weaning transition grouping strategies on heifer performance over a 112 d study from 2 to 6 months of age. One hundred-eight Holstein heifer calves (77.38 ± 2.28 kg; 60 ± 1.6 d of age) were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 treatments. Treatments d 1-14 were: 1) Calves moved immediately from the nursery barn to group housing in a grower barn in 6 replicated 9.14 × 4.57 m pens of 6 calves/pen (GM); 2) Calves not moved but changed to group pens in 6 replicated 7.02 × 2.29 m pens of 6 calves/pen within the same nursery barn (GN); or 3) Calves not moved and continued to be individually housed d 1-14 in 2.29 × 1.17 m pens within the same nursery barn (IN). On d 15, calves assigned to GN and IN were moved to the grower barn in 6 replicated pens of 6 calves/pen (GN calves remained in their respective groups). During d 1-7 of the study all calves were fed a complete texturized 20.1% CP (DM basis) calf starter and d 8-14 transitioned to whole corn and pellet 17% CP (DM basis) grain mix. After the feed transition, all group pens were fed 2.73 kg/d of the grain mix for d 1-28 and 2.27 kg/d from d 29 -112 with free choice hay. Transition strategy did not affect calf performance (P>0.05) from d 1-14. Daily gain and feed/gain averaged 0.92 and 2.76 kg, respectively. The GM calves had higher (P=0.03) daily gains (1.03 kg) from d 15-112 than GN (0.99 kg) calves with IN calves being similar (1.02 kg). Calves assigned to IN had lower feed/gain (P=0.05) from d 15-112 (3.88 kg) compared to GN (3.99 kg) and GM (4.01 kg) calves. Under the conditions of this study delaying socialization for 14 d resulted in similar growth as compared to calves grouped housed for 112 d.
1Southern Research and Outreach Center, University of
Minnesota, Waseca
2Hubbard Feeds, Mankato, MN
3Department of Animal Science, University of Minnesota, St. Paul
- 2007 -
Post weaning performance of Holstein dairy heifers fed diets differing in forage quality and supplemented with a low moisture block
H. Chester-Jones1, D. Ziegler1, R. Larson2, B. Ziegler2, J. Linn3, M. Raeth-Knight3, and G. Golombeski3
Ninety-six dairy heifers were used in a 112-d study to evaluate feed intake and performance from 9 to 25 weeks of-age. Heifers (92.3 ± 0.93 kg BW) were randomly assigned to 1 of 4 grower diets (6 heifers/pen, 4 pens/treatment). All treatments were fed a cracked corn and pellet grain mix (16% CP) which was limit fed to 2.72 kg/calf per d (as fed) d 1 to 14 and to 1.82 kg/calf per d from d 15 to 112. Hay was fed free choice (FC) from d 1 to 112.Treatments were: 1) LOW: alfalfa hay (19.3% CP; 100 RFV); 2) LOWB: alfalfa hay (19.3% CP; 100 RFV) and low moisture molasses-based block (30% CP); 3) MED: alfalfa hay (19.6 % CP; 130 RFV); and 4) HIGH: alfalfa hay (18.6 % CP; 154 RFV). Using the low moisture block increased ADG by 4.0% and feed efficiency (FE) by 2.3% for the LOWB as compared to the LOW treatment. Feeding a higher quality hay increased ADG by 9.0% and FE by 3.0% for the MED compared to the LOW and LOWB treatments. Heifers receiving the highest quality hay (HIGH) had increased ADG (1.4%) and FE (5.9%) compared to heifers fed the MED treatment. Final BW for heifers fed LOW (188.9 kg) and LOWB (193.1 kg) were lower (P<0.05) than heifers fed MED (198.9 kg) and HIGH (202.0 kg), respectively. Over the 112 d study, ADG (kg/d), grain DMI (kg), hay DMI (kg/d) and FE (kg feed/kg gain) were 0.87, 1.70, 2.41, 4.78; 0.91, 1.70, 2.36, 4.62; 0.96, 1.70, 2.68, 4.59; 0.97, 1.70, 2.49 and 4.33 kg for heifers fed LOW, LOWB, MED, and HIGH treatments, respectively. Under the conditions of the study, performance of all heifers was acceptable and an economic comparison should be the criteria to select the hay of choice when limit feeding grain mixes. The study demonstrated that feeding up to 2.72 kg daily of a 16% CP grain mix for the first 14 d followed by 1.82 kg/d from d 15 to 112 with access to FC alfalfa hay provides sufficient energy and protein for acceptable heifer growth.
1Southern Research and Outreach Center, University of Minnesota, Waseca
2Hubbard Feeds, Mankato, MN
3Department of Animal Science, University of Minnesota, St. Paul
Effects of feeding a polyclonal antibody preparation against selected rumen bacteria on rumen pH of lactating dairy cows
N. DiLorenzo1, C.R. Dahlen2, J.E. Larson1, R.K. Gill1, and A. DiCostanzo1
A series of experiments were conducted to evaluate the effects of feeding an avian-derived polyclonal antibody preparation against selected proteolytic, amylolytic and Gram – bacteria (RMT) on rumen pH of lactating dairy cows. Exp 1: 13 rumen cannulated dairy cows in late lactation were used in a cross-over design consisting of a 13-d adaptation period followed by 1 d of sample collection. Cows were fed a basal diet containing 1.72 Mcal NEl/kg DM, 17.5% CP, 0.65% Ca and 0.35% P. Cows received 10 mL RMT or a preparation made with generic eggs (Control) daily top-dressed at 0900. Rumen pH was measured at 0, 2, 6 and 8 h post feeding on d 14. Exp 2: A batch culture incubation was done using rumen fluid from early lactation donor dairy cows supplemented with RMT or Control (10 ml/d) for 13 d. Flasks (250 mL) were incubated at 39°C with 10% glucose added as substrate. Each flask received 0.5 mL of RMT or Control, and pH was measured over time. Exp 3: Four rumen cannulated dairy cows in early lactation were used in a cross-over design with two 3-d pH-monitoring periods. Cows received 250 mL of RMT or Control solution on d 0 through the rumen cannula. During days -1 to 1, rumen pH was recorded every 20 min by means of an indwelling pH electrode. Exp 1: No significant effects (P>0.05) of RMT were observed in rumen pH of late lactation dairy cows. Exp 2: pH at 4.5 h (6.04 vs. 5.85) and 6 h (5.20 vs. 5.08) of incubation was greater (P<0.05) in flasks infused with RMT. Exp 3: mean daily rumen pH (6.07 vs. 5.75) and mean daily maximum rumen pH (6.82 vs. 6.36) were greater (P<0.05) for cows receiving RMT. Mean daily minimum rumen pH tended (P=0.06) to be greater for cows receiving RMT (5.48 vs. 5.06). Feeding an avian-derived polyclonal antibody preparation against specific rumen microorganisms was effective at maintaining a greater rumen pH in early lactation dairy cows; this finding may have positive implications on health and performance of dairy cows.
1Department of Animal Science, University of Minnesota, St. Paul
2Northwest Research and Outreach Center, University of Minnesota, Crookston
Feeding management and characteristics of rations for high producing dairy cows in freestall herds
M.I. Endres and L.A. Espejo
Department of Animal Science, University of Minnesota, St. Paul
The objectives of this cross-sectional observational study were to describe the feeding management and characteristics of rations for high producing Holstein cows housed in freestall barns in Minnesota, evaluate ration particle size change throughout the day, and investigate herd-level risk factors for particle size change. Each of 50 randomly selected freestall dairy herds was visited once during the study. Samples of TMR were collected from the high group feed bunk to represent the initial ration as delivered to the cows, three other samples collected every 2-3 hours, and the accumulated orts cleaned out of the bunk. Feeding management practices and TMR formulation were also collected at that time. The most common frequency of feeding was 1x/day (70%) followed by 2x/day (22%) and 3x/day (8%). Frequency of feed push-up was 5.4 ± 2.3 x/day. Linear feed bunk space per cow was 0.45 ± 0.11 m. Sixty-two percent of the farms had 3-row pens and 38% had 2-row pens. Linear feed bunk space per cow was greater in 2-row pens (0.56 m/cow) than 3-row pens (0.39 m/cow). Post and rail was the most common type of feed barrier (60%), followed by headlocks (28%), combination of post and rail with headlocks (8%), and diagonal bars (4%). Water was provided mainly on water troughs with an average linear space of 4.6 ± 2.1 cm/cow. The forage content of the formulated ration was 52% of the ration DM, with an estimated DMI of 24.3 kg/cow/day. Corn silage was the most commonly used forage on the formulation of the TMR. The NDF content of the analyzed ration was greater than the estimated NDF content of the formulated ration (30.6% and 29.8%, respectively). In contrast, the CP content was lower (17.5% and 17.9%, respectively). The average particle size of the initial TMR was 6.4 mm and it increased to 9.2 mm in the orts. Initial particle size and initial dry matter of the ration, time after feed delivery, linear feed bunk space per cow, and frequency of feed push-up were associated with particle size change throughout the day.
Pre- and post weaning performance and health of dairy heifer calves fed milk replacers with different protein sources
S. Hayes1, B. Ziegler2, R. Larson2, H. Chester-Jones3, D. Ziegler3, J. Linn4, M. Raeth-Knight4, and G. Golombeski4
One-hundred-twenty-four 2 to 4 d-old dairy heifer calves were randomly assigned to 1 of 5 medicated (20% CP:20% fat) milk replacers (MR) with 4 MR partially replacing milk protein with plant-based sources to measure pre- and post weaning performance and health. Calves were housed in 2.29 x 1.17 m individual calf pens, within a frame-steel curtain side-wall, naturally ventilated barn. Initial BW averaged 40.9 kg ± 0.79 kg. Treatments were: 1) MR all-milk protein control (CON); 2) MR with hydrolyzed wheat gluten protein replacing 50% of the milk protein (50WG); 3) MR with soybean protein concentrate replacing 50% of the milk protein (50SPC); 4) MR with WG replacing 30% of the milk protein (30WG); and 5) MR with 25% WG and 25% SPC replacing milk protein (25SPCWG). Milk replacers were fed at 0.284 kg (as-fed) in 1.99 L water 2X daily for the first 35 d, and then 1X daily from d 36 to weaning at 42 d. Calves were offered a 20.2% CP calf starter (CS) and had access to fresh water. Total DMI from MR averaged 21.8 kg/calf. Calves fed CON had 4.09 kg greater (P<0.05) pre-weaning gain compared to other groups. Overall ADG and feed/gain were 0.78, 1.80; 0.71, 1.85; .70, 1.98; 0.69, 1.88; 0.68 and 1.93 kg for calves fed CON, 50WG, 50SPC, 30WG and 25WGSPC, respectively. Health treatment costs/calf averaged $2.09. Under the conditions of this study, feeding an all-milk protein MR with CS resulted in excellent growth. The use of WG and SPC as a partial replacement for milk protein reduced calf performance due mainly to CS intake differences. Plant-based MR protein sources do have the potential to reduce feed costs to weaning.
1Milk Products, Chilton, WI
2Hubbard Feeds, Mankato, MN
3Southern Research and Outreach Center, University of Minnesota, Waseca
4Department of Animal Science, University of Minnesota, St. Paul
Pre- and post weaning performance and health of dairy heifer calves fed milk replacers supplemented with oligosaccharides
B. Ziegler1, R. Larson1, S. Hayes2, H. Chester-Jones3, D. Ziegler3, J. Linn4, M. Raeth-Knight4, and G. Golombeski4
One-hundred-one 2 to 4 day-old dairy heifer calves were randomly assigned to one of 4 non-medicated, all-milk protein (20% protein:20% fat) milk replacers (MR) with supplemental treatments to evaluate their effect on pre- and post weaning calf performance and health. Calves were housed from July to September in 2.29 x 1.17 m individual calf pens, within a frame-steel curtain side-wall, naturally ventilated barn. Initial BW averaged 40.4 kg ± 0.69 kg. Treatments were: 1) MR control; 2) MR with mannan oligosaccharides (Bio-mos®, fed at 2 g/calf daily); 3) MR with fructo-oligosaccharides (inulin, fed at 5.67 g/calf daily) and, 4) MR with a combination of Bio-mos® (2 g/calf daily) and inulin (5.67 g/calf daily). Milk replacers were fed at 0.284
kg (as-fed) in 1.99 L water 2× daily for the first 35 d, and then 1X daily from d 36 to weaning at 42 d. Calves were offered a 20.4% CP (DM basis) texturized calf starter (CS) and had access to fresh water at all times. Total DMI from MR for 42 d averaged 20.58 kg/calf. There were no pre- and post weaning performance differences by treatments (P>0.05). Pre-weaning CS DMI, total DMI, total gain and feed/gain averaged 17.32, 37.90, 22.81 and 1.67 kg, respectively. Post weaning CS DMI, total gain, and feed/gain averaged 26.51, 12.75 and 2.08 kg, respectively. Overall 56-d daily gain and feed/gain averaged 0.64 and 1.79 kg, respectively. Pre-weaning fecal scores for the control MR calves tended (P=0.07) to be lower than calves fed the other treatments. Health treatment costs/calf averaged $3.24, $3.17, $3.88 and $3.97 for calves fed treatments 1, 2, 3 and 4, respectively. Under the conditions of this study, feeding a MR supplemented with oligosaccharides did not affect pre- and immediate post weaning calf performance.
1Hubbard Feeds, Mankato, MN
2Milk Products, Chilton, WI
3Southern Research and Outreach Center, University of Minnesota, Waseca
4Department of Animal Science, University of Minnesota, St. Paul
Performance of Holstein dairy heifers fed whole-shelled corn and protein pellet diets differing in protein levels
D. Ziegler1, M. Raeth-Knight2, J. Linn2, G. Golombeski2, R. Larson3, B. Ziegler3, and H. Chester-Jones1
Ninety-six dairy heifers (93.8 ± 0.77 kg BW) were used in a 112-d study to evaluate feed intake and performance from 9 to 25 weeks of age when offered limit (LF) or full-fed (FF) whole-shelled corn and pellet (WCP) diets varying in protein level, with or without access to free choice (FC) hay. Heifers were randomly assigned to 1 of 4 grower diets (6 heifers/pen, 4 pens/treatment). Treatments from d 1 to 56 were 1) 16LF: 16% CP WCP, LF to 2.72 kg/calf (as-fed) and FC alfalfa hay (19.7% CP, DM basis); 2) 13FF: 13% CP WCP, FF with no hay; 3)
16FF: 16% CP WCP, FF with no hay; and 4) 19FF: 19% CP WCP, FF with no hay. Day 57 to 112 all heifers were LF their respective WCP up to 2.27 kg daily with FC hay. Day 1 to 56, heifers fed 16LF had the lowest (P <0.05) daily gain (1.01 kg/d) and highest feed/gain (3.64)
vs. FF diets, which averaged 1.25 kg/d and 3.13 kg feed/kg BW gain, respectively. From d 57 to 112, heifers fed 16LF had 10.2% higher (P <0.05) ADG (1.08 kg/d) compared to the 13FF, 16FF and 19FF diets which averaged 0.97 kg/d. Total gain over 112-d for 16LF heifers (116.6 kg) was 6.2% lower than the other treatments which averaged 124.4 kg. Daily gain (kg/d) and feed/gain for the 112-d study were 1.04, 4.42; 1.10, 4.29; 1.11, 4.11; 1.13, and 4.03 kg for 16LF, 13FF,
16FF, and 19FF heifer groups, respectively. Initial hip heights (HH) averaged 105.3 cm with similar (P>0.05) HH gains (20.8 cm) for all heifer groups over the 112-d. Body condition score gain for 16LF heifers was +0.77 being 9.4% less than the other heifer groups (+0.85). Under the conditions of this study, all treatments resulted in adequate heifer growth. The results will allow for further refinement of protein levels to use in grain mixes.
1Southern Research and Outreach Center, University of Minnesota, Waseca
2Department of Animal Science, University of Minnesota, St. Paul
3Hubbard Feeds, Mankato, MN
- 2006 -
Performance of dairy heifer calves fed milk replacers with equal protein and fat levels but utilizing different fat sources
B. Braman1, S. Hayes1, H. Chester-Jones2, D. Ziegler2, J. Linn3, and B. Ziegler4
One-hundred-eleven 2 day old dairy heifer calves were randomly assigned to one of 3 all-milk protein milk replacer (MR) treatments to evaluate the effect of fat source on pre- and post-weaning calf performance. Calves were housed in 2.29 x 1.17 m individual calf pens within a frame-steel curtain side-wall naturally ventilated calf barn. Average BW across treatments at day 2 of-age was 41.8 kg ± 0.54 kg. All MR contained 24% protein: 20% fat and only differed by fat source. Fat treatments were: 1) Animal fat (AF); 2) Vegetable blend of 80% palm oil and 20% coconut oil (VF); and, 3) AF plus a blend of medium chain tri-glycerides containing 1% caproic, 69% caprylic, 1% capric and 29% lauric acids fed at 5 g/calf daily (AFA). Milk replacers were fed at 0.28 kg (as-fed) in 1.99 L water 2X daily for the first 35 days, and then 1X daily from day 36 to weaning at 42 d. Calves were offered an 20.9% CP (DM basis) texturized calf starter throughout the study. Fresh water was available daily at all times. Total DMI from MR for 42 d averaged 20.9 kg/calf. Feed DMI to 42 d tended to be higher for calves fed AF (26.38 kg) vs. those fed AFA (23.95 kg; P<0.08) with the VF calves being similar to other groups (24.19 kg). Daily gains to 42-d were similar (P>0.05) averaging 0.65, 0.62 and 0.62 kg for calves fed AF, VF, and AFA calves, respectively. There were no differences (P>0.05) in post weaning gain and gain/feed from d 42 to 56, which averaged 0.95, 0.45; 0.95, 0.47; 0.96 and 0.47 kg for calves in the AF, VF and AFA groups respectively. Overall 56-d daily gain and gain/feed were not affected by treatments (P>0.05) averaging 0.73, 0.53; 0.70, 0.54; 0.70 and 0.54 kg for calves fed AF, VF, and AFA, respectively. Fecal scores taken daily throughout the study were not affected by treatment (P>0.05). Under the conditions of this study feeding a common milk replacer with varying fat sources did not affect pre- and immediate post weaning calf performance.
1Milk Products, Chilton, WI
2Southern Research and Outreach Center, University of Minnesota, Waseca
3Department of Animal Science, University of Minnesota, St. Paul
4Hubbard Feeds, Mankato, MN
Performance of Holstein dairy heifers fed concentrate diets containing dried distillers grains or urea
R. Larson1, B. Ziegler1, J. Linn2, D. Ziegler3, and H. Chester-Jones3
Ninety Holstein dairy heifers (av. BW 100.9 ± 1.30 kg) were used in an 84-d study to evaluate feed intake and performance from 13 to 24 weeks of-age. Post weaned heifers were randomly assigned to 5 replicate pens (6 heifers/pen) each of 3 grower diets containing an 18% CP (DM basis) concentrate mix limit-fed up to 2.27 kg/heifer daily with free-choice hay. Concentrate mixes were: 1) Cracked-corn and soybean meal-based pellet (C); 2) Cracked corn and dried distillers grain (DG; 1.45 kg DG/heifer; CDG) and 3) Cracked-corn and urea-based pellet (22.7 g urea/heifer; CUP). During the first 28 d of the study, heifers fed CDG tended to have (P<0.10) faster daily gains (0.93 kg) than those fed CUP (0.85 kg) but similar (P>0.10) to those fed C (0.87 kg). Gain/feed for the same period was similar across heifer groups (P>0.2) averaging 0.27 kg. There were no heifer performance differences (P>0.2) from d 29 to 56 or 57 to 84 d. Final BW and body condition score were 181.05 kg, 3.68; 184.65 kg, 3.68; 180.18 kg and 3.72 for heifers fed C, CDG, and CUP diets, respectively. Overall heifer performance for the 84 d study was not affected by concentrate mix fed (P>0.3). Average daily hay intake was 2.42 kg/heifer over 84 d with a range from 1.41 kg/heifer during d 1 to 28 up to 3.46 kg/heifer from 57 to 84 d. Total gain, total DMI and gain/feed for 84 d were, 79.68, 355.45, 0.23; 83.15, 346.85, 0.24; 80.27, 346.39, and 0.23 kg/heifer for those fed C, CDG, and CUP diets, respectively. The study found that limit feeding a concentrate mix to 2.27 kg/ day with free choice hay for post weaned dairy heifers from 13 to 24 weeks of age supported good growth rates. Using DG or urea as alternative protein sources in concentrate mixes were acceptable options.
1Hubbard Feeds, Mankato, MN
2University of Minnesota, St. Paul
3Southern Research & Outreach Center, Waseca
The effects of manganese levels in water on the performance of dairy calves from birth to 70 days of age
K.M. Steffenhagen, M.L. Raeth-Knight, and J.G. Linn
University of Minnesota, St. Paul
Thirty-three Holstein or Holstein-Montebeliarde crossbred calves, born from November 2003 to April 2004, were blocked by sex and randomly assigned to 1 of 3 treatments for 70 days. Treatments were control water (0.003 ppm Mn), 0.25 ppm Mn in water and 0.75 ppm Mn in water. The control water was supplemented with manganese carbonate to achieve 0.25 and 0.75 ppm Mn levels. Colostrum was fed twice daily the first two days following birth, for a minimum of 4 feedings. Milk replacer, containing 20% crude protein and 20% fat, was mixed with treatment water to contain 11% solids and fed twice daily until weaning at 42 days of age. Starter (18% CP) and treatment water were offered ad libitum day 7 to day 70. Feed and water intake were recorded daily. Body weight (BW) and hip height (HH) were recorded at birth, day 28, 42 and 70. Calves were housed individually in calf hutches from day 3 to day 70. Growth and intake data were analyzed as repeated measures using PROC MIXED and birth weight within sex was included in the statistical model as a covariate. There was no significant effect (P>.1) of calf sex on performance therefore, only treatment means are presented. Manganese level of water mixed with milk replacer or offered ad libitum had no significant effect on milk replacer or starter intake or growth of calves. Free water intake averaged 2.65, 2.71, and 2.68 L/day pre-weaning (day 3-42) and 10.80, 11.83 and 11.46 L/day post-weaning (day 43-70) for control, 0.25, and 0.75 treatments, respectively. For all calves, total dry matter intake averaged 1.75 kg/day pre-weaning and 3.55 kg/day post weaning. Calf body weight for control, 0.25 and 0.75 treatments averaged 50.1, 46.8 and 50.0 kg at birth and 104.3, 99.8, and 104.4 kg at the end of trial. Manganese carbonate in water up to 0.75 ppm Mn did not significantly impact calf performance or health.
Effects of various methods used to process soybean meal on protein digestion in the rumen and small intestine
M.D. Stern1, M. Ruiz Moreno1, and C.A. Macgregor2
A three-step procedure was used to evaluate the effects of soybean meal processing on ruminal crude protein (CP) degradation and intestinal CP digestion. Residue from 16 h in situ ruminal incubation simulated ruminal undegradable protein (RUP), and was incubated for 1 h in a 1 N HCl solution with 1g/L of pepsin, simulating abomasal CP digestion. After incubation, pH was neutralized and a pH 7.8 phosphate buffer with 3 g/L of pancreatin added, then incubated for 24 h at 38 °C, simulating intestinal digestion. This procedure was used to evaluate seven soybean meal (SBM) products including solvent-extracted SBM (SE), mechanical-extracted (ME) SBM #1 with fresh soy gums (ME1G), ME SBM #2 (ME2), ME SBM #3 (ME3), ME SBM extruded (MEE), SE heat treated (SEH), SE nonenzymatically browned (SENB). Ruminal undegradable CP (RUP) was 23.2, 49.3, 42.1, 33.4, 38.3, 52.3 and 68.3% for SE, ME1G, ME2, ME3, MEE, SEH and SENB, respectively. Intestinal CP digestion (ID) was 67.5, 83.8, 78.9, 75.7, 76.5, 65.4 and 57.7% for SE, ME1G, ME2, ME3, MEE, SEH and SENB, respectively, indicating that processing can overprotect protein from digestion in the small intestine. Intestinally absorbable dietary protein (IADP), calculated as RUP x ID was 15.7, 41.3, 33.2, 25.2, 29.3, 34.2 and 39.4% for SE, ME1G, ME2, ME3, MEE, SEH and SENB, respectively. The range of IADP was 15.5% for SE to 41.3% for ME1G, however it is interesting to note that SENB was next highest at 39.4% because of a high RUP value that compensated for lower intestinal digestion. These results demonstrate that it is important to account for RUP and intestinal CP digestion when selecting a SBM source to include in the ruminant diet.
1University of Minnesota, St. Paul
2Grain States Soya, Inc., West Point, NE
Evaluating in vitro neutral detergent fiber digestibility of high-fiber byproduct feeds and forages
J. Wakker, H.G. Jung, and J.G. Linn
University of Minnesota, St. Paul
In vitro neutral detergent fiber digestibility (IVNDFD) is being used to evaluate feeds for quality and purchase. The objective of this study was to evaluate the repeatability of IVNDFD analysis over time using 12 forages and 10 high-fiber byproduct feeds. During a 6-wk experimental period, ruminal contents were collected on a bi-weekly basis from a single lactating Holstein cow. Ankom filter bags containing 0.5 g of each feedstuff were incubated, in duplicate, for 48 h at 39°C using the Daisy Oven system. Data were analyzed using PROC GLM of SAS. Week of rumen fluid collection significantly (P<0.05) affected IVNDFD across feeds with collection 2 having lower IVNDFD values than collections 1 and 3. Ranking by IVNDFD of forages, but not byproduct feeds, was affected (P<0.05) by collection. Average IVNDFD for whole cottonseed and wheat middlings were 32 and 54%, respectively, while the other 8 byproduct feeds ranged from 84 to 91% IVNDFD. For a conventional corn silage sample, collections 1 and 3 were higher (P<0.05) in IVNDFD than collection 2 (67 & 66 vs. 45%). A brown midrib (BMR) corn silage’s IVNDFD was higher (P<0.05) for collection 3 compared to collections 1 and 2 (73 vs. 60 & 59%). Comparing the conventional and BMR corn silages, IVNDFD was different for collection 2 (45 vs. 59%), but not different for collections 1 (67 & 60%) and 3 (66 & 73%). Three alfalfa samples (1 haylage and 2 hays) did not differ for their IVNDFD values across collections, but ranking by IVNDFD within rumen collections revealed differences. Haylage was higher (P<0.05) in IVNDFD than hays 1 and 2 for collection 1 (62 vs. 53 & 52%), similar to hays 1 and 2 for collection 2 (54 vs. 51 & 50%) and higher (P<0.05) than hay 2 for collection 3 (58 vs. 50 vs. 47%). Four grass hay samples differed in ranking by IVNDFD within rumen collections. For collection 1, ryegrass and oat hay were no different, but both hays were higher (P<0.05) than mixed-grass hay and barley hay (74 & 69 vs. 57 & 54%). Ryegrass was higher (P<0.05) than oat hay, mixed-grass hay, and barley hay for collections 2 (75 vs. 60, 55, & 50%) and 3 (74 vs. 61, 56, & 49%). Repetitive rumen fluid collections under standardized conditions resulted in different IVNDFD results for individual feeds. Ranking of forages, but not byproduct feeds, varied among rumen fluid collections. |
