Rearing calves: The importance of water

Now that the clocks have changed and temperatures are starting to rise, we would like to draw your attention once again to the topic of “Water for calves”.

Good quality water is essential for optimal calf rearing. On the one hand, to dissolve the milk powder and, on the other hand, to provide in addition to the milk. Calves that are given water early on consume more concentrate and, in the long term, have better rumen development and growth (see table below).

When we supplement the calf’s diet with fresh water, we must observe a number of preconditions:

• Start giving water in the first week of life, so that the calf quickly becomes familiar with the water.
• A calf needs at least 10% of its body weight in fluid every day. On hot days in particular, this requirement quickly exceeds the amount of milk that calves receive.
• Add electrolytes (Denkacare Vitalfort) to the water to improve the taste and absorption. Ensure the correct dosage (Vitalfort: 25 grams/litre of water).
• If you use your own water source, check the quality at least every six months.
• Use drinking bowls or troughs that are suitable for calves, as shown in the overview below: