Calf Care Guide: The Critical First 24 Hours
Abhishek Adhikari
Expert, Murrah Buffalo
The future of your farm depends on the calf. Learn about colostrum feeding and navel care.
Calf Care: The First 24 Hours
Mortality in buffalo calves is high, often due to neglect in the first day.
1. Colostrum (Khiss)
Feed the mother's first milk (colostrum) within 1 hour of birth. This is vital for immunity. A calf should drink 1/10th of its body weight in colostrum.
2. Navel Cord
Cut the navel cord about 2-3 inches from the body with a sterilized blade and dip it in tincture of iodine to prevent infection.
3. Cleaning
Clean the mucous from the nose and mouth immediately after birth to help breathing. Let the mother lick the calf dry; it stimulates circulation.
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