Critical Evaluation of Dairy Calf Management: A Foundation for Sustainable National Milk Production
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.58300/jps.v4i2.1321Keywords:
calf, dairy cattle, milk production, sustainabilityAbstract
The successful rearing of dairy calves is a critical foundation for the sustainability of national milk production. The early life stage of calves is a vulnerable period that significantly influences their future reproductive and productive performance. This article presents a critical evaluation of key aspects of calf management, including feeding practices, housing systems, and sanitation and health protocols. The review reveals that failures in early management, such as delayed colostrum intake, poor nutritional quality, or inadequate hygiene, contribute substantially to high mortality rates and suboptimal growth. In contrast, science-based and properly implemented management practices have been shown to improve calf survival, growth efficiency, and readiness as future replacement stock. A well-managed calf will mature into a healthy and productive dairy cow, which is essential to maintaining herd replacement rates and long-term milk yield.
Keywords: calf, dairy cattle, milk production, sustainability
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