Effects of type of liquid feed and feeding frequency on calf performance

Abstract

The effects of liquid feed and feeding frequency on concentrate mixture intake, rumen fermentation and rearing performance were investigated in 24 bull calves divided into 2 groups, receiving milk or milk-replacer once or three times a day. VFA concentration was estimated in the rumen fluid at 36 and 90 days of age. The liquid feed did not influence the concentrate intake (P>0.05). The calves receiving milk were characterized by higher concentration of butyric acid in the rumen fluid (P≤0.02) and higher daily weight gains (P≤0.02) compared with those fed milk-replacer. The increasing feeding frequency during the period from 7 to 36 days of age was reflected in lower daily intake of concentrate mixture (P = 0.02).