Winter management tips for calf raisers

Winter management tips for calf raisers

A commonly occurring question from dairy producers is: How can we adjust our management practices to accommodate extreme temperatures so we can keep our calves healthy and growing in the winter months?

“As temperatures begin to decrease, the energy maintenance requirements of calves and heifers increase. In order for growth to occur these additional energy needs must be met,” says Devin Hyde, a calf and heifer specialist with Purina Animal Nutrition.
Purina Animal Nutrition calf photo
Cold stress in calves occurs when temperatures fall below 60 degrees for calves under 21 days of age and 42 degrees for calves over 21 days of age. “But when it’s 30 degrees F, calves will need 30 percent more energy just for maintenance,” notes Hyde. “Energy requirements only go up the colder it gets.”

Hyde shares the following five tips to help manage cold-stressed calves.



3. Calf jackets. The use of clean, dry calf jackets has been shown to increase the internal temperature of a calf by 25 degrees F.


5. Providing enough nutrition. Energy needs will be met by diverting resources from growth and body reserves. Plan your feeding program to provide the additional energy needed during cool weather periods. Implementing a calf starter that is formulated for supporting growth during the winter months is essential for consistent growth rates.

