In-calf Heifer

Te Ao Hou, September 1963, Page 64

In-calf Heifer One of the most common faults is the wintering of in-calf heifers with the mature dairy herd, particularly when available feed is limited, and having the heifers competing with the cows for the feed. Well grown heifers often slip back badly in condition under this management and it is wise to draft out springers and winter them separately. To summarise, I would emphasise the importance of good rearing from an early age, combining cleanliness and correct bucket feeding with rotational grazing. Calves must have the pick of the pastures, not be confined for weeks in a dirty worm-ridden calf paddock from which so many ills, deaths and pitiful looking calves originate. Far too little attention is given to calves and it is felt that it is more good luck than good management that calves on many farms ever reach the producing age.