Calf Milk Replacer Feeding Directions

Feeding an orphaned calf can be more of a challenge than most people think. Knowing what kind of milk replacer to get, how to mix it, and how often to feed it is critical to the health and well-being of the growing calf. Knowing how to do it properly is the key to a healthy calf.

Things You'll Need

  • Bottle
  • Bucket
  • Nipple
  • Milk replacer
  • Warm water
  • Measuring cup
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Instructions

    • 1

      Follow the directions on the milk replacer product exactly. Different types of milk replacers can have different mixing directions. It is important to follow the product label, so read before you mix.

    • 2

      Run water until it is warm, or heat the water in a pan or dish. It does not need to be hot, but warm. Touch the inside of your wrist to the water to test the temperature.

    • 3

      Mix the powder and water until the liquid is smooth and not lumpy. It may take several minutes of shaking before all the lumps dissolve. Use your fingers to break up larger lumps.

    • 4

      Pour the milk replacer into the feeding bucket or bottle to the proper measure amount. Most feeding buckets and bottles come with pre-marked guidelines on them, but if not, you will need to use your measuring cup to make sure that your ingredients are properly measured.

    • 5

      Feed the calf while the mixture is fresh and warm. If the calf does not consume all the milk replacer, discard the leftovers, as it may have bacteria or other germs in it from the calf's mouth, which will reproduce and can make the calf sick.