Forage for Pre-weaning Calves: An Update

Abstract

Forage nutrition for pre-weaning calves hosts numerous practical questions and on-farm challenges. The present review article aimed to update and address the biological consequences of forage provision to pre-weaned dairy calves. Health, nutrient intake (milk plus solid feed), and rumen development are the most important factors related to calf growth in pre- and post-weaning periods. A growing body of evidence suggests that the health and growth performance of dairy calves in the pre-weaning period are associated with their later performance as dairy cows. It seems that starter feeding strategies, including grain type, processing method, feed texture, and forage inclusion during the critical pre-weaning period may have profound effects on rumen function and calf performance. It is well understood that grain fermentation by-products are essential for increased growth and absorptive capacity of the rumen papillae. Forage provision as a part of a starter diet has been a topic of recent research. The rumen pH is the main factor altering the fate of fermentation and eventually animal health. In the pre-weaned calf, two major hypotheses exist regarding forage feeding. The first hypothesis describes that the rumen is not completely developed in pre-weaned calves and forage provision during this period might increase gut fill, and hence, decrease starter intake. It is believed that depressed starter intake may limit energy intake and finally suppress calf growth rate. The second hypothesis indicates that the rumen pH may decline as calves age and starter intake increases. Accordingly, forage inclusion in calf starter diets could prevent further rumen pH decline and subsequent negative consequences while improving starter intake and calf growth. Research data regarding these hypotheses are controversial. Many factors, such as milk feeding method, grain, forage type, and experimental conditions could affect calf responses to dietary forage. The current review focused on the biological consequence of forage provision to young calves to provide a practical framework for better use of forages in pre-weaned calves feeding programs. Keywords: Forage, Growth, Pre-weaned calf, Rumen development