A calf has a small rumen – a capacity of just 1-2 litres in a newborn, as opposed to 25-30 at 3 months of age – that needs quality feed in order to develop effectively. Because of the size of the rumen the feed has to provide a high concentration of essential nutrients.
The best calf feeds are concentrated and high in dry matter. Feed can vary widely when it comes to dry matter content – for example, silage-based feeds may contain only 50% dry matter as compared with 85% in the better concentrates.
You will certainly pay less for feed with a higher moisture content but it’s a false saving. You are essentially paying for water and your calf is not getting the nutrition it needs in order to flourish. Post-weaning growth check is often a consequence of substandard nutrition.
For the best results and optimum growth, use a quality feed that is high in dry matter, balanced, fibrous and contains an anti-coccidial. The feed should also smell good and taste good so the calf is encouraged to eat. Fiskens feeds are high-quality concentrates and contain a minimum 80% dry matter.