Early life is a critical window for setting calves up for success, and gut health technologies are helping producers do just that. But when it comes to gut health, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach.
Before their immune systems are fully developed, calves encounter stress like weather shifts, vaccination protocols and exposure to pathogens. That’s why early gut health support matters.
“The immune system is like a military,” Dr. Soderstrom says. “Even when it’s not fighting infection, it still needs resources to stay ready. When it goes to work, it draws heavily on protein and glucose – nutrients that would otherwise be used for growth.”
So how do producers strike the right balance? Dr. Soderstrom uses a “Goldilocks” analogy to explain. Feeding too little misses the opportunity to support the calf’s immune system when it matters most. This can lead to stunted growth, less feed efficiency and impacts on milk production and muscle development later in life. On the flip side, feeding too much can overstimulate rather than support the system of a healthy calf.
Producers have access to a variety of gut health technologies, including prebiotics, probiotics and more. Choosing the right approach starts with understanding the specific challenges and needs of your operation. Working with a trusted advisor can help you identify products that are research-backed and proven to perform in calves.
To learn more about gut health tools and how to choose the right ones for your herd, talk to your local Land O’Lakes calf and heifer specialist or visit purinamills.com/commercial-dairy.
Be the first to comment