Effect of heating bovine colostrum at 60°C for 90′ on colostrum quality and, the health and growth characteristics of Holstein dairy calves

Abstract

Aims The major objective of this study was to investigate the efficacy of heat‐treating colostrum on the subsequent growth characteristics (weight gain, body size, dry matter intake and feed efficiency rate) and health of Holstein calves. Methods A total of 1200 neonatal Holstein calves on one commercial dairy farm were enrolled. The calves were divided into heat‐treated (60°C for 90 min) and unheated (raw) colostrum groups. Calf serum IgG and total protein concentrations were measured before and after colostrum consumption. Health characteristics and disease prevalence were recorded during the suckling period. Results Consumption of heat‐treated colostrum led to increased serum IgG (P < 0.0001) and total protein (P < 0.0001) concentrations, increased apparent efficacy of IgG absorption (P < 0.0001) and increased general health condition, weight gain (P < 0.0001) and clinical performance. Conclusions and clinical relevance Heat‐treatment of colostrum is an effective method to improve health and increase growth characteristics (weight gain, body size, dry matter intake and feed efficiency rate) of neonatal dairy calves, most likely by decreasing microbial load and facilitating IgG absorption.