Effects of delaying increase in milk allowance and type of gradual weaning program on performance and health of calves fed lower levels of milk

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects delayed increase in milk allowance and type gradual weaning program on feed intake, health, growth male Holstein calves. Using a 2 × factorial design, each calf randomly assigned 1 level treatments upon arrival rearing facility. Calves were either moderate (MM) or lower (LM) treatment. All calves received same from until d 12, increasing 4 5 L/d (115 125 g/L) over 12 d. On 13, MM began receiving additional compared with LM they weaned, offered peak 9 (140 g/L). treatment total 35 kg replacer 45 d, calves, who 25 also be weaned by 2-step 4-step program. had their reduced steps 30 45, 45. After 46, no but continued monitored 59. ad libitum access water arrival, solid onward. No interactions detected. By consumed greater amounts than preweaning phase 13 29 (6.1 vs. 4.8 L/d) phases (4.7 3.2 L/d). 22 phase, 40 43 whereas postweaning consumption similar for both treatments. blood β-hydroxybutyrate levels, indicating rumen development. Body weight size measurements between across study, although average daily gain 38 46 (0.96 0.71 kg/d). Both resulted consumption, growth, health parameters. Overall, results indicate that delaying after at facility provided overall beneficial effect