Calf Rearing by Multiple Suckling and the Effects on Lactation Performance of the Cow

G.C. Everitt and D.S.M. Phillips

Ruakura Agricultural Research Centre, Hamilton

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Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production. 1971, 31: 22-40

Suckling by calves in early lactation stimulated milk production. An increased peak of lactation in suckled cows and heifers was indicated with the superiority in production over milked cows and heifers being maintained after weaning and throughout lactation. No significant difference in post-weaning milk production could be detected between cows suckled by calves twice daily and those suckled continuously. Cows suckled in early lactation did not gain as much body weight in lactation as milked cows.

The enhanced milk production of suckled cows appreciably reduced the apparent calf rearing cost. Good weight-for-age beef weaners were produced but continuously suckled calves were more variable in weaning weight than calves suckled twice-daily.

Problems and prospects of integrating efficient dairy and beef production, using nurse cow systems, are discussed.

Keywords: NZSAPAB;