Intake and growth in transported Holstein calves classified as diarrheic or healthy within the first 21 days after arrival in a retrospective observational study

摘要

Strategies that can improve health and maximizegrowth in the preweaning period should improve thesubsequent production and longevity of replacementanimals. Few data are available that quantify feed andwater consumption, as well as growth, in healthy versusnon-healthy calves—the objective of this study. A databaseof Holstein calves (＜1 wk of age; n = 313) wasdeveloped to compare calves that developed diarrhea inthe first 21 d after arrival from commercial farms to theresearch facility versus calves that remained healthy.Individual calf data from 4 experiments included dailyintake of milk replacer, free water, electrolyte solution,and starter grain, as well as weekly body weight (BW)and frame measures for 21 d after arrival. Calves with afecal score of ＞2 for ≥3 consecutive days over the first21 d of each experiment were retrospectively classifiedas diarrheic (DIA; n = 96); the remainder were classifiedas healthy (HEA; n = 217). Other health issueswere minimal. The likelihood of elevated fecal scoreoccurrence and the cumulative number of days withan elevated score were greater for DIA calves than forHEA calves. The initial total protein concentration inblood did not differ between classifications. Cumulativemilk replacer dry matter intake (DMI) and waterconsumed from milk replacer were significantly less forDIA calves than for HEA calves, because DIA calveswere more likely to refuse milk replacer. Cumulativestarter DMI was decreased for DIA versus HEA calves.As a result, cumulative total DMI was significantlyless for DIA calves than for HEA calves. Cumulativefree water intake did not differ between classifications.The DIA calves were more likely to receive electrolytesolution and have more days given electrolyte solutionthan HEA calves. As a result, total cumulative intakeof electrolyte solution was greater in DIA calves thanin HEA calves. Cumulative total water intake did notdiffer between classifications. Initial BW did not differbetween classifications; however, a classification × timeinteraction for BW indicated that HEA calves wereheavier than DIA calves and had greater ADG. Significantclassification × time interactions for hip heightand heart girth revealed that HEA calves had a largerframe size. Gain-feed ratios for both milk replacerintake and total DMI differed between classifications:DIA calves were less feed-efficient than HEA calves.In conclusion, diarrhea in young calves decreases DMI,BW gain, and feed efficiency relative to HEA calveswithin 21 d of arrival.