The efects of milk feeding frequency on the growth and behavior of the calves

In this study, it was aimed to examine the effects of milk feeding frequency on the gropwth, behavior, and health of calves during the suckling period. Ten Holstein calves (5 in each group) at the 5-day old were used in the study. Computer Controlled Feeder (BKB) was used in the study. First group calves were given 4 lt/day of milk replacer (G1), morning and evening. The seconf group was allowed to consume a maximum of 12 lt/day milk replacer in the early morning (05:00-08:00), midday (10:00-13:00) and late afternoon (16:00-20:00), which is natural sucking behavior. There was no significant difference betwee the body weights, total and daily body weight gain and body measurements od the groups. However, G1 calves consumed more starter (P<0.05) than G2 calves. A non-significant improve in feed conversion was obtained in favor of G2 calves. Non-nutritive BKB visits were observed more in G1 calves at the beginning od the study, and visits of G2 calves increased towards the end of the study. It was observed that BKB visits were higher işn G1 calves than G2. The time spent ruminating was close to each other in the groups. Cross-sucking behavior was more common in G1 calves, but this behavior pattern decreased with age. Tongue rolling behavior was more common in G2 calves, but this behavior pattern disappeared with age. The vocalization behavior was observed in G1 calvesi but this behavior disappeared with age. GGT, inorganic phosphorus and glucose concentration of blood biochemical variables were high in G2 calves (P<0.05). Hematological blood values such as hemoglobin, hematocrit, erytrocytes and platelets increased significantly in G2 calves (P<0.05). However, a non-significant effect on oxidative stress, antioxidant defense mechanism and immune response of calves was observed. In conclusion, the milk feeding frequency did not have significant effect on the growth, behavioral patterns and health of the calves.