Mark Sullivan wrote:Needs some quick help. I bought two Jersey bull calves - one is a month and the other a week old
When I got them home, they didn't eat much the first day if anything. I was told to feed 2x per day. Older one 3 quarts per. Younger one 2 quarts per. The second day they ate the recommended amount.. I had coats on them and took the coats off on day three and they just looked skinny. So I added a THIRD feeding at noon. They sucked it all down. I'm feeding them Purina Medicated Milk Replacer - they were getting mothers milk before I got them last Saturday.
They seem to be losing weight even with extra feedings ! I'm getting advice to stick to prescribed amount, but they act hungry. One has loose stool (see pix).
Any advice ? ARe they just not processing the Milk Replacer ?
Too much milk replacer, or milk replacer not mixed according to the directions (i.e. too much powder) will give them scours as well. My calves on mama's milk tend to be loose too. They should be getting hay free choice as well as the milk replacer and water should be available as well.
As far as being 'skinny', they ARE Jersey boys, and they will look skinny, that is just how Jerseys are. As long as they are growing taller, they are fine.
On another note, when I had to use milk replacer, because my first cow died from milk fever when her daughter was 8 days old, I purposely did not use medicated stuff. I had to search to find the unmedicated stuff because modern farming seems to think that everything needs jabs and medication. ick! That bottle raised girl is now 13 years old and has given us 9 babies and LOTS of milk. I love my Fiona!
Best wishes!
