Evaluation of high-energy calf starter for early-weaned calves

Abstract

An experimental calf-starter diet containing roasted whole soybeans, buffer and dehydrated alfalfa pellets was compared with a conventional calf starter for young calves on an early-weaning program. Overall means for weight gains, dry feed consumption, and fecal scores were similar for the two treatments. However, calves fed the experimental calf starter showed a trend toward higher gains at 4 and 5 wk of age. More fat than necessary in the diet and feeding of prestarter until 8 wk of age may have precluded finding significant benefits with the experimental starter.