Three key factors can reduce calf mortalities and boost milk yield: correct hygienic practice in calf cages, control of Cryptosporidium parvum, and implementing a colostrum programme. Specialist veterinarian Dr Chris van Dijk and feed specialist Kenneth Botha explain these.
Many dairy producers struggle with calf mortality and slow growth. Dr Chris van Dijk, veterinarian and CEO of the Milk Producers’ Organisation, (MPO) and Kenneth Botha, feed specialist and technical director at Barnlab Feed, stress that good calf cage hygiene and a colostrum programme are essential for addressing this problem and raising a healthy herd.
CRYPTOSPORIDIUM PARVUM
Speaking at an MPO training day in Lichtenburg, North West, Van Dijk explained that incorrect hygiene and management practices were the main cause of Cryptosporidium parvum infection.
The tiny, two- to six-micron coccidian protozoa organism infects mainly the small intestine and leads to diarrhoea. It damages the gut villi, leading to poor absorption of nutrients.
“This is often lethal in newborn calves, or puts their growth at risk, which in turn affects their eventual production.”
C. parvum is particularly difficult to control as it forms oocysts with a protective outer layer. It is resistant to disinfection, but it can be destroyed by ozone, chlorine dioxide or desiccation.
“In a milking parlour, there are always liquids, and calves with a C. parvum infection are also susceptible to Escherichia coli, salmonella, and the coronavirus or rotavirus. Some farmers have lost many calves to it.”
Cryptosporidium is prevalent throughout South Africa; a sign is chronic diarrhoea, especially in young calves. Although mortality may not always be high, morbidity is, and other infections abound as the calves’ immunity levels are low.
TRANSMISSION
C. parvum in the gut is passed on via dung, water, milk and food. It then infects new hosts via the faecal-oral route, and can infect humans.
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Review: the Toyota Hilux 2.8GD-6 DC 4×4 GR-Sport III
The third iteration of the Hilux GR-Sport has finally achieved a sense of presence and style befitting its raceinspired branding. But is this the ultimate modern Hilux? Car Magazine takes a closer look.
Why maize prices soar in Kenya and Malawi but not Tanzania
Namhla Landani, an economist at the Centre for Competition, Regulation and Economic Development, University of Johannesburg, and Arthur Khomotso Mahuma, economist and researcher at the Centre for Competition, Regulation and Economic Development, University of Johannesburg, analyse the issue.
Wet carcass syndrome: a scourge in SA sheep farming
Wet carcass syndrome continues to take a huge financial toll on South African sheep farmers. Octavia Avesca Spandiel spoke to two experts about the ongoing genetic research aimed at addressing this issue.
Pollination innovation
Bee-Tech Group is transforming South African agriculture with pollination technologies that boost crop yields and enhance sustainability. Founder Michiel Bruggeman spoke to Octavia Avesca Spandiel.
The valuable addition that makes this farm tick
Owning the value chain provides farmers with far more control over their produce. However, it requires a fine balance between production and ensuring there is a strong and steady market. Lindi Botha visited Rosemary Hill to find out how this essential oil producer leverages hospitality to make the farm viable.
The benefits of recirculating aquaculture systems
A powerful set of attributes has established recirculating aquaculture systems as a cornerstone of global temperate fish farming, writes Leslie Ter Morshuizen, owner of Aquaculture Solutions.
Minister has big plans for emerging and commercial farmers
DA leader and Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen spoke to Glenneis Kriel about his priorities for his department over the next five years, including an increased focus on biosecurity.
New study aims to make wheat more disease resistant
A recent international study explains how bread wheat has helped to transform the ancient world on its path to becoming the iconic crop that today helps sustain a global population of eight billion.
Conservation farming and biodiversity boost soil health and sustainability
A recent academic event focused on research into the links between soil biodiversity, soil health and sustainable agriculture
What has led to the unparalleled rice shortage in Japan?
Japan is facing a rice shortage amid concerns about a potential 'megaquake', several typhoons and an annual week-long holiday, which has led to an increase in panic buying.