“Many different factors play a role in the development of pneumonia in calves. It is important to keep resistance and infection pressure in balance, so that you protect your calves as much as possible against bacteria and viruses that cause pneumonia,” Lieke explains.
1. Colostrum is the basis
A good colostrum supply is the best protection you can give a calf from birth. View the ideal colostrum schedule here.
2. Herbs and Essential Oils in Milk Powder
After the colostrum period, you can build up the resistance with Kalvolac Power CAIR.® “In practice, we even see 33% fewer airway problems,” says Lieke. This milk powder consists of 100% dairy protein and also contains bio-active lactoferrin to support your calf’s immune system. CAIR® is a unique additive, specifically designed to support the respiratory tract. This blend of herbs and essential oils contributes to free airways. Read more about CAIR.®
3. Preferably use all-in-all-out
To limit the transmission of bacteria and viruses between calves, the principle of all-in-all-out is preferable to the transfer of animals. “You limit the spread of germs to only the loft mates,” Lieke explains. Is this not possible, because you work with a calf feeder, for example? Then the hygiene of the pacifier is important. “With the latest models of calf feeders, you can clean the teat externally. Also pay attention to the material of the pacifier and replace the pacifier regularly, so that there are no cracks in the pacifier that could contain germs.”
4. Take a critical look at the climate
An ideal climate is important for healthy lungs. Also pay attention to air exchange. “Especially when it is cold, we tend to reduce ventilation. Not only does the temperature in the barn increase, but also the humidity. These conditions are ideal for the growth of bacteria and viruses and therefore an increased infection pressure,” Lieke explains. A smoke test is a good start to get a picture of air currents in your young cattle barn. At the same time, this is only a snapshot. So ask your young cattle specialist about the climate kit. With these sensors, you can measure air speed, temperature, humidity and ammonia levels over a longer period of time. This gives a very detailed picture of the climate. Of course, you will then receive compliments or tips for your barn climate.
5. Vaccination is an option
Vaccinating your calves against lung problems can be useful. At least, if you suffer from that specific pathogen you are vaccinating against. Discuss this with your own veterinarian.
This is how other farmers do it
Dairy farmer Remco Rotteveel knows from experience that a respiratory infection causes permanent damage and costs a lot of growth. “That’s why we started ventilating differently, adapted the housing and fed milk powder that supports the airways,” he says in this video.