How to Take Care of New Calves

The first few hours and days of a calf's life are vital in its development. During this time, the calf develops immunities from consuming the colostrum of its mother, and learns to walk and suckle. The calf is at its most vulnerable to contagious diseases, so one must take care to keep the calf's environment as pathogen-free as possible. Raising newborn calves can be challenging, but knowing that you have provided them a healthy start in life is rewarding.

Things You'll Need

Colostrum
Milk or milk substitute
Bottles and nipples (if bottle-feeding)
Water
Calf starter feed
Hay
Iodine
Scissors

Instructions

- 1
  Provide dry, clean, warm housing for the calf. Calves lack immunity at birth and exposure to urine, feces or sick cattle may cause illness. Sterilize any equipment used during the birthing process or for feeding the calf.
- 2
  Cut the umbilical cord 2 to 3 inches from the calf's body using sharp, sterile medical grade scissors. Dip the calf's belly area, including the cord, in a tincture of 2 to 7 percent iodine or other disinfectant, according to the University of California Davis Veterinary website. If the calf has extra teats, they may also be removed at this time.
- 3
  Provide 2 to 4 quarts of colostrum for the calf as close to the time of birth as possible, and certainly within several hours of birth. The colostrum provides the calf with critical nutrients. The calf is able to absorb these most effectively in the first 24 hours of life. Fresh colostrum may be frozen for later use and thawed in warm water. Continue to provide colostrum for the calf for the first four days of its life.
- 4
  Feed the calf fresh whole milk or milk replacement and calf starter feed, and provide it with access to high-quality hay -- such as alfalfa -- and fresh, clean water. A calf should gain between 1.5 and 1.7 lbs. per day.
- 5
  Consult with your veterinarian regarding vaccinations and preventive medicine for your calf.