Ration should be about 80 per cent of the lactation nutrient package
Incidence of the calcium deficiency can be sporadic, but hurt when they hit
Look to find a balance between very expensive and very cheap rations
It takes time for a calf stomach to develop to handle certain feeds
Assess what’s happening at the feed bunk, supply proper ration
Dairy Corner: Satisfying thirst also promotes good dry calf starter intake
Palm fat can help increase milk fat, but more isn’t necessarily better
Dairy Corner: If silage moisture is too high going in, it can affect feed quality and palatability
Make sure the starter has proper nutrients but also great taste
Feeding and management options to consider
