Effect of different forage sources on performance of preweaning calves

In this study the aim is to evaluate effect of feeding different forage source in different time periods with a concentrate feed on body weight gain, consantrate feed consumption, forage consumption, and body measurements. In the trial thirty-six calves assigned 3 treatments and each treatments there were 12 calves. In the trial calves fed individually and trial period was 60 days. All calves received colostrum for first 3 days, and after the third day they recieved 4 lt of milk replacer until the 60 days of age. Control group (1. Treatment) received ad libitum starter feed from 3 day of age and chopped alfalfa hay after 35. day of age. Second group received ad libitum same starter feed and after the second week they recieved chopped alfalfa hay. Third group received ad libitum same starter feed and after the second week they received oat hay. Calves' body weight, body length, body barrel and wither height also measured and recorded weekly. Concentrate feed and forage consumption was measured and recorded daily. After 60 days of trial period there were no statistical differences in body weight, starter and forage consumption (P>0,05). As a result of this research, it was determined that different quality hay sources did not have a significant effect on body weight and measurements in calf feeding from birth to weaning period.