CATTLE WEANING & PRECONDITIONING | Product Spotlight

Feed for Calves During Critical Transitions

Weaning and preconditioning mark one of the most challenging transitions for a calf. During this period, stress can compromise growth, immunity and overall well-being. Providing targeted nutrition helps ease the shift by supporting rumen development, weight gain and resilience against common health challenges.

From creep feeds to complete rations, today’ s formulations are designed to encourage intake, reduce setbacks and prepare calves for long-term success. The following column highlights products developed to give calves a strong, healthy start.

NutreBeef Starter Creep Feed

NutreBeef Starter Creep Feed is formulated for calves before weaning to supplement declining milk availability from the cow. The feed is offered while calves are still nursing, supporting weight gain and early growth during the transition to independence.

The formula contains 14 % crude protein, 15 % maximum crude fiber and 2.5 % crude fat to supply energy and balanced nutrition for development. Vitamins and minerals are included to meet dietary needs at this stage.

By introducing creep feed early, calves can adapt to solid feed more easily and experience reduced stress at weaning. The feed is designed to encourage consistent intake and support continued growth after separation from the cow.

Nutrena | www. nutrenaworld. com

AlphaLine Start Calf Starter

Designed to support young calves during the shift from milk to solid feed, AlphaLine Start Calf Starter is formulated to encourage early rumen development and consistent intake.

The textured starter contains 22 % protein, 3 % fat and 8.5 % fiber, with added Bovatec to control coccidiosis. Seasonal formulations include Clarifly for fly management.

The feed incorporates a mix of carbohydrates such as starch, sugar and soluble fiber to reduce the risk of scours while promoting healthy rumen papillae. Protein quality and balanced amino acids are intended to aid growth, while yeast cell wall

components provide additional immune support.

Field testing of more than 50,000 pounds has demonstrated on-farm performance, with results showing calves achieving average daily gains of about 3 pounds under well-managed conditions. Feeding guidelines recommend offering up to 7 pounds per head per day, with adjustments for bodyweight and production goals.

Poulin Grain | www. poulingrain. com

Precon Complete

Precon Complete from Purina Mills is intended to be fed as the sole ration for newly weaned calves. The pellet feed includes built-in roughage, removing the need for supplemental forage during the transition.

By encouraging quick intake, the ration helps restore nutrients calves may lose during weaning or transport stress. The formulation combines proteins, vitamins and minerals with Availa 4 trace minerals, which are intended to replenish mineral levels in nutritionally challenged animals. Palatability is emphasized to get light to moderate weight calves eating dry feed sooner.

The feed also incorporates RX3 Immune Support Technology, developed to prime immune defenses and aid calves’ response to common health challenges. Optional additives can be included to assist with weight maintenance and coccidiosis prevention. Positioned as a complete, nutrient-dense starter, the ration is targeted at reducing stress-related setbacks and supporting recovery and growth during the weaning period.

Purina Animal Nutrition LLC. | www. purinamills. com

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