Question

The colostrum should be fed at the rate of _______.

• A. 25% of calf's body weight
• B. 30% of calf's body weight
• C. 40% of calf's body weight
• D. 10% of calf's body weight

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

The correct answer is (C) 10% of calf’s body weight.

Colostrum is the first milk produced by mammals after giving birth. It is rich in antibodies, nutrients, and other essential substances that help strengthen the calf's immune system and provide nourishment in the early stages of life. For optimal health, colostrum should be fed to the calf at approximately 10% of its body weight within the first few hours after birth.

Let’s briefly go over the other options:

(A) 25% of calf’s body weight: This is too much. Feeding more than the recommended amount of colostrum can be harmful and is not necessary for the calf's health.

(B) 30% of calf’s body weight: Similarly, this is also too high and not recommended.

(D) 40% of calf’s body weight: This is excessively high and could lead to complications for the calf.

Therefore, the correct amount of colostrum to be fed to the calf is 10% of its body weight (Option C).

Answer 2

It is recommended that newborn calves receive colostrum equivalent to approximately 10% of their body weight within the first few hours after birth to boost their immune systems.