High daily weight gains are only achieved when calves are optimally supplied from the very beginning. It is crucial that energy and protein are right, starting from the first day after the colostrum phase.
1,000 g
Daily weight gain – the goal for every calf
What 1,000 g daily weight gain really means
Target value
1,000 g per day is considered a benchmark for successful, intensive rearing.
Later performance
Calves with high weight gains will later become more robust, higher-performing cows.
Supply indicator
Daily weight gains provide important indications of whether the nutrient supply matches the growth target.
The three key factors:
Energy:
24 MJ ME/day
The basis for very high daily weight gains.
This requires around 1.3–1.5 kg of calf milk replacer powder per day.
Protein:
300–320 g per day
For muscle and organ development.
The calf milk replacer should contain at least 22% crude protein.
Digestibility:
Quality makes the difference
A high proportion of skimmed milk powder supports very good digestibility and tolerance.
What works in practice
Intensive feeding
From day one, provide enough milk at the right concentration – three times a day, consistently.
High-quality calf milk replacer
A high skimmed milk content ensures excellent digestibility and optimal nutrient absorption (e.g. BEWI®-MILK AM 5).
Stable supply
Consistent feeding times and quantities give the calf security and routine.
Why the investment pays off
01
Do not cut corners
Cutting corners during the milk phase costs more later (e.g. veterinary costs, replacement rearing, and lost performance).
02
Invest early
The first weeks of life are the most efficient phase for growth. Every euro invested here pays off later.
03
Consistency
Ensure consistent development across the entire group. Fewer outliers, fewer problems.
High-quality calf milk replacer with an adjusted energy and protein content provides the basis for high daily weight gains. What matters is a calf milk replacer tailored to the needs of intensive rearing – with a high skimmed milk content, sufficient protein, and built-in intestinal support.
