Synthetic Rations for the Dairy Calf

Abstract

A "synthetic" liquid ration was developed which will support good growth of the young dairy calf over a period of 12 weeks from birth. The successful ration contains casein 30%, lard 26.3%, salt 4%, cerelose 39.4%, and vitamins. It contains 13% solids, the lard being homogenized into the soln. of casein, salt and cerelose. The vitamins are added at time of feeding. Calves which had received colostrum for 24 hrs., when fed the "synthetic milk" ration containing liberal amts. of vitamin A, did not require ascorbic acid. Calves fed a diet containing soybean oil rather than lard scoured, grew poorly, and appeared unthrifty.