Category: Alpine Goats

The Importance of Colostrum for Newborn Ruminants

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A Ewe And Two Lambs Juliette Peyrol-Bonheur (French, 1830–1891)

Colostrum, the first milk produced by the mother after giving birth, is essential for the survival and health of newborn ruminants such as calves, lambs, and kids. It differs significantly from regular milk due to its high concentration of nutrients, antibodies, and other bioactive compounds. Here’s why colostrum is crucial:

 

 

1. Passive Immunity Transfer

 

Newborn ruminants are born without a fully functional immune system and lack maternal antibodies. Colostrum provides immunoglobulins (primarily IgG), which offer passive immunity against pathogens present in the environment. This immunity protects the young animal until its own immune system matures and begins producing its own antibodies.

 

2. Rich Nutritional Content

 

Colostrum contains higher levels of proteins, fats, vitamins (A, D, and E), and minerals compared to regular milk. These nutrients are vital for energy, growth, and the development of critical organs, particularly the gastrointestinal system.

 

3. Gut Health and Development

 

The bioactive compounds in colostrum, such as growth factors, help in the development of the gastrointestinal tract. These compounds stimulate cell growth, repair intestinal tissues, and enhance nutrient absorption.

 

4. Disease Prevention

 

The antibodies and antimicrobial factors in colostrum, such as lactoferrin and lysozymes, protect newborns from bacterial, viral, and fungal infections. This is especially important in the early days when the animal is highly vulnerable to diseases.

 

5. Energy Supply

 

Newborn ruminants have low energy reserves at birth. Colostrum provides a concentrated source of energy, particularly from fats, which is crucial for thermoregulation and physical activity in the first hours of life.

 

6. Timing is Critical

 

The ability of the newborn’s intestine to absorb immunoglobulins decreases rapidly after birth, with the most efficient absorption occurring within the first 6-12 hours. By 24 hours, the gut closure process significantly reduces the uptake of these antibodies. Therefore, ensuring the newborn consumes sufficient colostrum as soon as possible is critical.

 

7. Quality and Quantity

Quality: High-quality colostrum has a high concentration of immunoglobulins and is free from contamination. Testing tools like a colostrometer or Brix refractometer can help assess colostrum quality.

Quantity: The general guideline is that newborns should consume about 10% of their body weight in colostrum within the first 12 hours of life.

 

Conclusion

 

Colostrum is more than just the first milk; it is a lifeline for newborn ruminants. Proper management of colostrum feeding—focusing on quality, quantity, and timing—is essential for ensuring the health, survival, and long-term productivity of young ruminants. Livestock producers must prioritize colostrum management to maximize the benefits for their herds or flocks. 


Recommended Reading from the Brian Hurlburt Bookshop: 
 

Goat Sings While Being Milked

Snowball the Singing Goat at Briden Farm

This is Snowball, our Saanen Dairy Goat. Since goats pick up on your stress level, and mood, while milking, I often sing to them! 

Even more surprising is that for the past few days, Snowball has been singing back! Listen closely and You’ll hear her…

Sorry for the wind noise, we don’t get to choose the weather we milk in! 

Would You like to hear Snowball in person? 
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Question? Call Brian at Briden Farm 902-907-0770

Nervous Dad Day

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Lucy brgins Her early Labour

That’s how I describe it when one of our Girls is ready to give birth! This time it’s Lucy, and she is loaded!

She’s been showing signs, well some signs for quite awhile, but over the past 36 hours or so she’s been showing even more signs. So, the time draws near. She’s been displaying a little Goop! Talking to Her unborn kids. Laying down a lot; I doubt she has much choice! Just look at Her! The Hour Draws Near! Ready! Set! Go!

I expect we may have some Bottle Baby Bucklings
If interested please call Brian at 902-907-0770.


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