orphan calf

[mds]

I HAVE A 1 AND 1/2 MONTH OLD CALF THAT HAS BEEN ORPHANED. DO I NEED TO PEN THIS CALF AND FEED IT MILK REPLACEMENT OR CAN I JUST START FEEDING IT SOME TYPE OF DRIED FEED, OR WILL IT START UTILIZING GRASS IN THE PASTURE AND THEREFORE I DO NOTHING BUT WATCH IT. ANY HELP WOULD BE GREATLY APPRECIATED. THANKS, MIKE.

 

[Farmer Kevin]

Placing the calf into a pen on its own will allow to keep an eye on him and giving him milk replacer with some dry calf starter feed and water ahead of him will also give you the oppurtunity to realize how much help the calf will need.

Kevin

 

[Kelly]

You need to pen the calf up and feed it milk replacer twice a day until you know he is eating at least 1 1/2 pounds of a good quality calf starter a day & hay or grass. And also drinking plenty of water.