Comparative Performance of Once- Versus Twice-a-day Milk Feeding in Preweaning Sahiwal Calves
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: This study aimed to compare the effects of once- versus twice-daily milk feeding in preweaning Sahiwal calves. Sixteen calves from the Livestock Experiment Station Qadirabad, Punjab, Pakistan, received 2 L of colostrum at birth, followed by 3 L of whole milk daily in two equal feedings until day 14. From day 15, calves were randomly assigned to once-daily or twice-daily milk feeding groups, with the twice-daily group serving as the control. To determine Growth parameters (body weight, heart girth, and withers height) each calf was weighed and measured at 2 weeks of age and then at weaning. Daily health scores were recorded for each calf using a standard scoring system. For indirect monitoring of rumen papillae development, blood samples were collected by jugular venipuncture 4h post-feeding every 14 days from Day 28, to assess β-hydroxybutyrate (BHBA) concentrations. Starter intake was also monitored. Results showed no significant differences between treatments in average daily gain (0.45 vs. 0.44 kg/d for males; 0.40 vs. 0.39 kg/d for females), starter intake (326.2 vs. 301.9 g/d), growth measures, and BHBA or health scores. These findings indicate that once-daily milk feeding is a viable alternative to twice-daily feeding, offering potential labor savings without compromising calf growth, health, or starter intake.
Source: Pakistan Journal of Science
Authors: M.N. Tahir, F. Ahmad, M. Ahmad, I. Anwar, A. Asghar, M. Akhtar, A. Qayyum, G.A.Chishti
Institution: University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences
Language: English
Subfield: Agronomy and Crop Science
Domain: Life Sciences
SDG: Zero hunger
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W4411435295