Synthetic Rations for the Dairy Calf

Ionophores in Dairy Rations

Introduction Ionophores have been used extensively in the beef industry in Canada since 1977. Until recently, there has been no label indication for use of ionophores in lactating dairy cattle. Ionophores are feed additives that alter rumen microbial populations through ion transfer across cell membranes. In Canada, the label warning prohibiting the use of Rumensin premix in lactating dairy ca...

Alternatives to Corn for Dairy Rations

A twoto four-fold increase in corn prices in recent years over historical trends has prompted many questions about alternatives to corn for dairy rations. As corn is a low protein high energy feedstuff, its continued use even with high prices or concern over its partial replacement is mainly confined to rations for lactating cows where meeting the energy requirements of milk production is impor...

Feeding the Newborn Dairy Calf

Using Distillers Grains in Dairy Cattle Rations

Distillers grains are co-products produced from the fermentation of grains for alcohol. Traditionally, alcohol was produced mainly for the beverage liquor industry, but in the last 20 years its use as an alternative fuel has increased significantly. This increased demand has led to the development of several ethanol production plants in Minnesota and the surrounding area. In 1996, it is estimat...

Reducing Dairy Calf Mortality

The loss of dairy calves from stillbirths and disease-related deaths places a significant challenge on the producer who wants farm-specific replacement heifers to maintain or expand herd size. Stillbirths are often overlooked as an important cause of calf mortality, as they are on some dairies. With improved record keeping, data analysis, diagnostic testing and herd monitoring, the appropriate ...