Colostrum timing is critical

1
Colostrum timing is critical

• Short-lived ability to absorb large molecules
• Not after 24 hr
• Digestive enzymes still low for first 12 hours
• Potential for pathogenic bacterial colonization
  in the intestine
• Unabsorbed antibodies line the calfs intestinal
  tract

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Feed Colostrum within 1 hour after birth
3
Calfs ability to absorb antibodies declines
rapidly over the first 24 hours
4
Weak or sick calves

• Some newborn calves are too weak to suckle or
  nurse from a pail or bottle. The esophageal
  feeder is an excellent aid for feeding colostrum
  to these calves.

5
Esophageal feeder design

• Consists of an esophageal probe, tube, clamp, and
  collapsible fluid-container.

• Rigid or semi-flexible tube
• Tear-shaped end to fit the esophagus

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Proper use

• Calves should stand while feeding to prevent
  fluids from backing up in to the lungs although
  weak calves may be fed while lying down.

• Clean thoroughly.
• Warm colostrum to body temperature.

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Step 1 Insert how much tube?

• Measure from the tip of the nose to the point of
  the elbow.

• Mark with tape
• In general, in young calves, pass only about 20
  inches into the mouth and esophagus.

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Step 2 Before insertion

• If the tube is cold, place it in warm water to
  make it more pliable.

• Lubricate the end with mineral oil, colostrum, or
  some other lubricant.

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Step 3 Opening the mouth

• Most calves will suck the end of the tube when it
  is offered

• Apply pressure to the corner of the mouth or over
  the bridge of the nose on the palate .

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Step 4 Passing the tube

• Slowly pass the tube along the tongue to the back
  of the mouth.
• When the tube is over the back of the tongue, the
  calf will start chewing and swallowing.

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Step 4 continued Finding the esophagus

• When properly positioned, you'll feel the rigid
  rings of the trachea and the enlarged smooth
  esophagus on the left side.

• Spurts of air in the exposed end of the tube
  indicate improper positioning in the trachea.

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Step 5 Delivering colostrum

• Now, unclip the tube to drain the liquid.
• Hold or suspend the bag and tube above the calf
  and allow several minutes to drain.

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Step 6 Removal and storage

• Slowly remove the tube when you're done

• Clean, sanitize, and drain the feeder.