In B. Sc. Thesis, we presented ad libitum feeding of calves until weaning as an alternative to conventional restricted milk feeding. In this alternative method, calves can drink up to 20 % of their body weight per day in the form of milk replacer or whole milk during the period before weaning. Since it is very important that calves achieve the highest growth rate possible before weaning, the daily ratio must be managed to allow calves to consume as many nutrients as possible. Nutrients are key to rapid growth and development of all organs and organ systems. It is necessary to coordinate liquid feeding and, beginning in the second week, dry feeding with a starter and hay. Care must be taken as calves are mostly still non-ruminants and their main part of the feed ratio is still liquid feed. If we do not take this into account, calves will be exposed to stress, resulting in lower feed intake and growth rate. A well-developed calf in the pre-weaning period continues to grow well, consequently reaching sexual maturity earlier and also allowing for earlier reproduction. The result of good calf rearing is also reflected in later milk yield, as various researchers estimate that milk yield can increase by up to 4 % in the first lactation.
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