Caring for the Newborn Calf (Preparing for Calving Pt 3)

The Beef Edge

For the final part of our special series in advance of spring calving on the Beef Edge Podcast, Teagasc vet, John Donlon focuses on caring for the newborn calf.

John discusses the importance of colostrum and the 1,2,3 of colostrum in which you use the first milk (colostrum) from the cow; feed the calf colostrum within the first two hours of birth; and calves must be offered at least 3L of good quality colostrum.

John outlines the importance of dipping or spraying the calves navel to prevent infection.

Obviously we expect the calf to get up and suck the cow straight away, but John describes the correct way to use a stomach tube if needed.

Regardless of a suckler or dairy beef system, there are a number of ailments that can arise, in relation to calf scour and respiratory issues and John highlights the importance of administering electrolytes.

Crypto and coccidiosis are unfortunately an issue on some suckler farms, with John detailing the preventative actions and best treatment measures.

Respiratory infections and disease are a main cause of calf deaths and John explains the best ways to prevent and treat this.

Clostridial diseases can cause a number of conditions in cattle. One of the most common conditions is blackleg. Unfortunately it is often too late when detected and there was a rise in reported deaths in 2024. John advises that it is a two shot vaccine and it’s critical the instructions are followed correctly to ensure it is effective.

If you missed either of the first two parts in the series, listen back to Teagasc Nutritionist Aisling Claffey on nutrition pre and post calving, and John Donlon on calving the cow.

The FutureBeef Webinar Series

The final part of the FutureBeef webinar Series is on Thursday, 23rd January at 8pm which will focus on Calving and Post-Calving Management.

Click here to register:

https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_UXK1_LHDSE-W_WDlb9HyGg#/registration

The webinar will be chaired by James Mullane, Future Beef Programme Advisor and will feature Dr John Donlon, Beef Herd Health Research Officer, Teagasc; Dr Doreen Corridan, CEO of the National Cattle Breeding Centre (NCBC); and Michael Biggins, Future Beef Farmer.

This webinar will centre on the calf, covering topics such as the first principles of calving, managing the calf’s first month, and getting the cow back in calf.

For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/thebeefedge

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