COLOSTRUM MANAGEMENT EFFECTS ON PASSIVE IMMUNITY TRANSFER IN CALVES

Abstract

This paper discusses how methods of colostrum management might influence the passive immunity transfer in neonatal calves with particular focus on the variables; colostrum quality, time of feeding, hygiene and subsequent health outcomes in the calves.  Determining the IgG levels in 120 colostrum samples and the corresponding calf serum samples was done by conventional ELISA methods.  The results revealed a significant difference in the quality of colostrum between breeds and parities with multiparous Holstein cows having the highest mean concentrations of IgG.  The timeliness of colostrum provision was quite crucial. Passive immunity transmission (serum IgG >10 g/L) success rate was 92 percent in calves fed within two hours of birth and only 48 percent in calves fed after six hours.  Also, high bacterial levels in colostrum (>100,000 CFU/mL) were associated with a significantly low absorption efficiency of IgG, which explains the importance of hygienic treatment.  Calves that acquired adequate passive immunity well had significantly lower morbidity rates, approximately 14 percent experienced diarrhea and 9 percent respiratory infection as compared to 33 percent and 28 percent in calves that had failed transfer.  What the results of weight gain during the initial 30 days showed, was that even more, the growth is associated with elevated blood IgG levels.  These findings demonstrate the significance of managing the colostrum properly that involves feeding the calves at the correct age, ensuring that the colostrum quality is high, and maintaining cleanliness. This matters in the wellbeing of the calves and farm production.  The research gives credence to the use of practical, science-based colostrum policies as a cornerstone of herd health programs