Early calf nutrition plays a crucial role in determining the long-term productivity and profitability of replacement heifers.

Although this early phase represents a relatively small proportion of total rearing cost, it has a substantial influence on calf development and lifetime performance.

Within the first six months of life, a calf will reach approximately 25% of its mature body weight, highlighting the importance of providing optimal nutrition from day one.

Research has shown that calves reared on high-quality milk replacer can achieve growth rates comparable to those fed whole milk.

However, this is only true when milk replacer is formulated using high-quality dairy ingredients and correct feeding protocols are followed.

As milk replacer products vary widely in formulation and cost, it is essential that farmers understand key nutritional and manufacturing considerations when selecting a product best suited to their farm system.

CalfLac contains 100% dairy protein source

When choosing a calf milk replacer, protein percentage often receives the most attention.

While protein level is important, the source of that protein is even more critical, particularly in the early weeks of life.

Ideally, a milk replacer should closely mimic whole milk, meaning the majority of protein should come from milk-based or dairy-derived ingredients.

Milk proteins are significantly more digestible than cereal or vegetable proteins, allowing calves to achieve their full growth potential.

Although cereal protein sources may reduce product cost, high inclusion levels can negatively impact performance, especially in young calves with immature digestive systems.

Elevated crude fibre levels on a label may indicate the presence of cereal protein derivatives and should raise caution when selecting a replacer for early-life feeding.

Fibre content should be clearly stated to two decimal places (0.00%).

Fat sources

Fat is the primary energy source in milk replacer, making both the level and type of fat critically important.

Coconut and palm oils are commonly used in high-quality milk replacers due to their excellent digestibility and energy availability for young calves during periods of rapid growth.

Country CalfLac is formulated with 22% fat to provide the high energy nutrition calves need for strong, consistent growth and lasting vitality. Ideal for supporting healthy dairy and beef calves.

Feeding rates and concentration

Whole milk typically contains solids at a concentration of approximately 12.5%. To replicate this on farm, milk replacers are often mixed at the same solids level.

Feeding 6L per day at 12.5% solids delivers approximately 750g of milk solids;
Feeding 8L per day at 12.5% solids delivers approximately 1,000g of milk solids.

Many farms now adopt accelerated feeding programmes to help replacement heifers achieve higher average daily gain (ADG).

These programmes may involve feeding at higher concentrations (e.g. 15%) or increasing daily intake.

Once-a-day feeding systems have also grown in popularity; however, this approach should only be considered once calves are at least one month-of-age and performing well.

Country CalfLac has a premium vitamin and mineral pack with pre and probiotics included. Essential to create a healthy gut microbiome in calves, crucial for immunity and digestion. 

Weaning practices

Weaning should be gradual and only carried out when calves are consuming at least 1.5kg of concentrate per day in a group-rearing system.

At this stage, calves should also be digesting sufficient dry matter from straw and concentrate, ensuring a smooth, low-stress transition from liquid to solid feed.

Properly managed weaning supports steady growth and minimises performance setbacks.

Testimonials

Sean Daly, Co. Offaly

“We achieved an average daily liveweight gain of 0.9 kg in our calves this year. Moving to 150g of CalfLac per litre made a huge difference to coat condition and overall appearance. We had bull calves on whole milk, and the calves on CalfLac looked every bit as good — with the same shine and condition.”

Victor Goulding, contract heifer rearer, Co. Tipperary

“I never had a shed as quiet — the calves were so content. Even on once-a-day feeding, there was no stress or bawling. The calves thrived on CalfLac, and knowing it contains 50% skim gave me great confidence in feeding once a day.”

Ger Kirby, Co. Limerick

“The biggest positive for us was that the calves had no setback - they thrived from day one. The health and shine on the calves this spring was hugely satisfying. What I really like about CalfLac is that all the protein comes from 100% dairy protein sources, allowing the calf to fully utilise it. Having pre- and probiotics included also gives me added reassurance.”

Brendan Ryan, Co. Limerick

“Willie from Country Nutrition explained how skim clots in the stomach and releases slowly throughout the day. It took us a short time to adjust to the powder, but after feeding, the calves would simply lie down in the straw - completely content. They were lying longer and not wasting energy moving around. We’ve never seen calves so settled and satisfied on a milk replacer, and repeat customers even commented on the excellent condition of our calves this year.”

For further details and to find your local stockist

Willie Walsh

Phone: +353 (0)87 671 2570

Email: w.walsh@countrynutrition.ie