Evaluation of Factors Affecting Colostrum Quality and Quantity in Holstein Dairy Cattle

SIMPLE SUMMARY: Administration of high-quality colostrum is vital for short and long-term health of newborn calves. It ensures the passive transfer of immunity and covers the high energy requirements during the first hours of calf’s life. Colostrum composition and factors affecting it have not been evaluated in large scale studies. Several factors affecting colostrum quality and yield were revealed. The digital BRIX refractometer proved quite useful. Colostrum quality can be maximized by management practices accounting for factors affecting its composition. ABSTRACT: The objective of this study was to conduct a large-scale investigation of colostrum composition and yield and an evaluation of factors affecting them. In this study, 1017 clinically healthy Holstein cows from 10 farms were used. The colostrum TS were measured using a digital Brix refractometer. Fat, protein and lactose content were determined using an infrared Milk Analyzer. Statistical analysis was conducted using a series of univariate general linear models. The mean (±SD) percentage of colostrum fat, protein, lactose and TS content were 6.37 (3.33), 17.83 (3.97), 2.15 (0.73) and 25.80 (4.68), respectively. Parity had a significant positive effect on the protein and TS content and a negative one on fat content. The time interval between calving and colostrum collection had a significant negative effect on the fat, protein and TS contents and a positive one on lactose. Colostrum yield had a significant negative effect on the protein and TS content, and it was affected by all factors considered. In addition to TS, the evaluation of the colostrum fat content appears essential when neonates’ energy needs are considered. The Brix refractometer, an inexpensive and easy to use devise, can be used effectively in colostrum quality monitoring.