News

Volatile Fatty Acids (VFA’s) are byproducts of microbial fermentation in the rumen. The three most abundant VFA’s produced in the rumen are acetate, propionate, and butyrate. Butyrate is a key nutrient essential for the development of rumen papillae, as the cells of the epithelial layer of the rumen wall use butyrate for energy and growth. 

Mature cattle are ruminants and utilize all four of their stomach compartments (rumen, reticulum, omasum, and abomasum) to allow for digestion of fibrous feeds. The digestive system of a newborn calf is very different from a mature animal. Initially, the digestive process is more similar to mono-gastrics (animals with one stomach)...

The 2021 Dairy Calf and Heifer Association (DCHA) Annual Conference kicked off April 6th. Producers and industry professionals from across the country were able to come together to learn from each other. This year the conference was also offered virtually and producers from across the globe were able to join in and view the presentation sessions through Zoom....

The “gut” and its health are not only critical for digestion, but for life itself. Optimal Calf health begins with a healthy gut. We need to establish a healthy gut microbiome from birth as this will have a profound impact on a calf’s life. Most of their immune system is found in the gut. That’s why gut health is linked to immune health...

It seems like most of the time when we talk about current research in calf rearing, we are mostly considering heifer calves raised as dairy replacements. Current research also takes much into consideration for raising calves for meat.  The University of Guelph recently reported on some great information regarding choosing and raising calves for veal or beef.