Feeding management for early rumen development in calves

Abstract

Young calves are physically as well as functionally represents two different types of animals about their digestive system. Development of the rumen after birth represents very important physiological challenge for young calves. Therefore, calf feeding is critical to provide the nutrients needed to achieve the calf’s full potential for growth. The production of VFAs is essential to the development of the rumen papillae. Feeding of forage resulted in production of acetic acid rather than butyric acid. Feeding of grains and butyrate are the key elements enhancing the papillae growth and overall rumen development. During this period, water plays critical role, to create the correct rumen environment that will support fermentation and production of VFAs, which will in turn stimulate rumen development. Feeding of purified slats of butyrate also enhances the rumen development.