A note on the estimation by simulation technique of the optimal colostrum dose and feeding time at first feeding after the calf's birth

Abstract

SUMMARYComputer simulations using parameters based on results from experiments showed that by chance a certain frequency of hypo-gammaglobulinaemia would always occur. This was due to variations in birth weight, concentration of immunoglobulin in the ingested colostrum, amount of colostrum offered, and age at first feeding. It was not necessarily associated with an absorption block as sometimes postulated. The probability of an individual getting hypogammaglobulinaemia can be minimized by early feeding of a large quantity of colostrum at the first feeding after birth.