The effect of milk replacer fat source on calf growth and health.

Calf milk replacer fat source was evaluated to determine the effect on performance and scour data when fed to Holstein bull calves. A total of 54 calves with an initial weight of 47.6 kg were randomly assigned according to body weight and blood gamma globulin concentration to three all-milk protein milk replacer treatments: 1) 22% CP / 20% fat from edible lard; 2) 22% CP / 20% fat from edible lard and butterfat (1:1); or 3) 22% CP / 20% from butterfat. Calf milk replacer was fed averaging 775 g per calf, daily. Milk replacers were medicated (28 g neomycin/kg, 14 g oxytetracycline/kg). Calves were individually housed in crates and fed equal amounts 2 times daily at 700 and 1615 hours. No starter was fed during this 28 day trial. Weight gain, feed efficiency, daily scour scores (1-4 score: l=normal, 2=loose, 3=water separation, 4=3 with severe dehydration) and scour days were calculated weekly for the four week trial period. Calves fed milk replacer containing edible lard had reduced (P<.05) incidence and severity of scours. Edible lard is an excellent fat source for milk replacer fed calves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]