Calf Rearing
Calves
Newborn Calf Care — Colostrum and First Week Feeding
Updated 08 Jul 2026 • By Falah Nutrition Desk, Animal Nutrition Advisor
The first 24 hours of a calf's life matter more than almost any other single period in its productive lifetime. Colostrum management in this window determines much of the calf's future disease resistance, growth rate and even eventual milk production as an adult.
Common Signs
- Calf slow or weak to stand and nurse after birth
- No visible colostrum intake within the first few hours
- Weak, dull calf in the first days of life
- Frequent scours or illness in calves that receive little/late colostrum, as a pattern across a herd
Possible Causes
- Delayed first colostrum feeding — the calf's gut can only absorb colostrum antibodies effectively in roughly the first 24 hours, with the window closing fastest in the first 6-12 hours
- Insufficient colostrum quantity fed at first feeding
- Poor-quality colostrum (thin, low-antibody) from the dam
- Unhygienic colostrum collection or feeding equipment
What the Farmer Should Check
- Did the calf receive colostrum within 1-2 hours of birth, ideally, and no later than 6 hours?
- Was enough colostrum given — generally around 10% of the calf's body weight in the first feeding?
- Is colostrum collected and fed hygienically, avoiding contamination?
- Is the calf being monitored closely for the first week for any signs of scours or illness?
Feed Guidance
Feed colostrum as soon as possible after birth — within the first 1-2 hours is ideal, and no later than 6 hours, since the calf's ability to absorb protective antibodies drops sharply after this window and is essentially closed by 24 hours. Feed a generous first quantity, roughly 10% of the calf's body weight. After the colostrum period, transition onto milk or milk replacer alongside small amounts of GOKA Calf Starter offered from a few days of age — even small amounts eaten early help develop the rumen ahead of full weaning. Keep all feeding equipment clean to avoid introducing infection during this vulnerable period.
Relevant GOKA Products
Calves (Cow & Buffalo)
Rapid growth - up to 200 kg by 5 months
When to Contact a Veterinary Doctor
For serious symptoms, consult a qualified veterinary doctor. Feed support can help overall nutrition and recovery but should not replace veterinary treatment.
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