Get all information you need to improve your calf health.

Reduce risk of infection with hygiene

Walking routes

Use protocolls and walking routes. This helps prevent the spread of germs and ensures consistent procedures for everyone. Always work with the youngest animals first, moving towards the older ones.

Change or clean footwear

Change or clean your footwear when transitioning between age groups. Always wear gloves and disinfect them during these transitions. This way, you help prevent the spread of infections.

Own (weaning) bucket

To prevent cross-contamination, each calf receives its own (teat) bucket when milk is dispensed. Clean the buckets and teats daily with detergent and warm water. Extra tip: Number the (teat) buckets and calving pens to ensure each bucket stays with its pen.

How to clean a calf hut

To ensure optimal calf health, provide a clean and stable living environment. Clean and disinfect calf huts between rounds to prevent illness and maintain a healthy space for your calves.

1

Start by removing coarse dirt with a high-pressure cleaner to clear out any visible debris. Use water to loosen and remove large particles of dirt, manure, and organic matter. This initial cleaning step ensures that the foam can penetrate and clean more effectively.View high pressure cleaners

2

Apply MS TopFoam Power to the calf igloo and grids, allowing the foam to act and break down residues. Let the foam work for up to one hour without drying out. Then, rinse thoroughly with water to ensure no foam remains. Check out MS TopFoam Power

3

Finish with disinfection to eliminate germs and bacteria. Spread MS Megades Novo on the calf igloo and allow it to take effect. For severecoccidia or cryptosporidium, consider using MS MegaDes Para for enhanced effectiveness. Repeat these steps with each round. Check out MS MegaDes Novo

3 questions to Jean-Bernard Béranger

Expert in calf rearing in outdoor nurseries for CalfOTel

An outdoor hutch creates a protective cocoon around the calf.

Jean-Bernard BérangerRaising calves outdoors in well-designed hutches enhances their immunity during their vulnerable early weeks by providing a controlled, hygienic environment. After three weeks of individual care, transitioning calves to small groups fosters socialization, immunity and adaptation to dry feed. Selecting a hutch with proper insulation, durability and ease of cleaning is vital for calf health.

Read full interview with Jean-Bernard

Support with nutrition

Calf diarrhea

Diarrhea is the cause of death in 60% of calves that die within the first two months of life. Newborn calves lack sufficient immunity, making them particularly vulnerable to diseases caused by viruses, bacteria and parasites.

Strong foundation for immunity

In the first three months, you establish the foundation for resistance, health, digestion and productivity. Providing extra support during this period sets the stage for a strong start. Healthy growth at a young age leads to higher milk production later in life.

Boost immunity in the first months

First day

Colostrum check

Test the density and thickness of colostrum using MS Colostro Balls and supplement with MS Colo-Activ Plus as needed.View feed support

First month

Support during milking period

Use MS Fit2Go Hydro-Tab as a feed salt to stabilize water and electrolyte balance. For calves with diarrhea, Bi-PILL is a sodium bicarbonate pill that can help encourage increased drinking.View feed support

After first month

Support for balanced feed

In the first three months, you establish the foundation for resistance, health, digestion and productivity. Providing extra support during this period helps ensure a strong start. Encourage water intake to promote rumen development with MS Fit2Go Electrolytes. Use MS Rumen Support to supplement rumen flora in cattle.View feed support

Optimizing calf health with the HyCare method

We understand that calf health is crucial for a thriving and sustainable dairy farm. That’s why our HyCare method incorporates comprehensive hygiene and care strategies to enhance calf well-being:

Cleaning and disinfection: We emphasize structured cleaning protocols, including cleaning and disinfecting calf huts between uses and regularly cleaning feeding buckets with MS Foam A.
Personalized care: Each calf has its own teat and bucket to minimize cross-contamination and ensure a healthier environment.
Fly control: We manage fly populations to prevent the spread of diseases and reduce stress on your calves.
Hygienic practices: Our methods include wearing gloves to maintain high hygiene standards and protect calf health.

By focusing on these key areas, the HyCare method supports the overall health and productivity of your calves. It results in no more antibiotics for diarrhea and contributes to the decrease of losses in the first 14 days, leading to success of your dairy farm.

More information about HyCare