Healthy calves grazing in a green pasture, symbolizing optimal nutrition and sustainable farming.

Unlock Your Calf's Potential: A Guide to Pre-Weaning Nutrition for Optimal Growth

Reese Marlowe in Climate & Environment December 2025 • 4 min read.

"Maximize daily weight gain and minimize feed costs with the right calf starter ration. Discover how simple dietary adjustments can lead to healthier, more productive livestock."

Raising healthy and productive calves is the cornerstone of successful cattle breeding. The early stages of a calf's life, particularly the pre-weaning period, are crucial for setting the foundation for future growth and performance. Proper nutrition during this time is paramount, influencing not only immediate weight gain but also long-term health and resilience.

Many factors influence the health and growth of calves. Among the most critical is their diet, specifically the introduction of calf starter feeds. This article explores the impact of different calf starter rations on the daily weight gain of pre-weaning Ongole grade (PO) calves, offering practical insights for farmers and ranchers looking to optimize their feeding strategies.

The goal is to translate complex research into actionable advice, helping you make informed decisions about calf nutrition. By understanding the nuances of different feed compositions, you can enhance the growth and well-being of your calves, contributing to a more profitable and sustainable operation.

Decoding Calf Starter Rations: What Works Best for Weight Gain?

Healthy calves grazing in a green pasture, symbolizing optimal nutrition and sustainable farming.

A study was conducted to evaluate the effects of different calf starter rations on the daily weight gain of pre-weaning Ongole grade (PO) calves. Twenty calves, around one month old, were divided into four groups, each receiving a different supplementary feed:

Each group's diet was carefully formulated to assess the impact of various feed components on calf development. The supplementary feed was given in controlled amounts, starting with 0.5 kg/day for calves aged 1-2 months and increasing to 1 kg/day for those aged 2-3 months. Calves were allowed to suckle from their mothers throughout the study.

Group 1 (P1): 100% soybean groats
Group 2 (P2): 50% soybean groats + 50% Gliricidia
Group 3 (P3): 50% soybean groats + 50% rice bran
Group 4 (P4): 50% soybean groats + 50% rejected bread

Researchers meticulously tracked the calves' weight at the beginning and end of the two-month trial to determine the average daily weight gain for each group. This data was then subjected to statistical analysis to identify significant differences between the treatments.

The Smart Choice for Calf Nutrition

The study definitively shows that incorporating soybean groats into pre-weaning calf rations leads to the highest daily weight gain. When considering economic factors, a blend of soybean groats and Gliricidia leaves emerges as the most cost-effective option, balancing growth with affordability. This approach not only supports the healthy development of calves but also promotes sustainable and efficient farming practices.

About this Article -

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Everything You Need To Know

What is a calf starter ration and why is it important for young calves?

A calf starter ration is a supplementary feed introduced to calves during the pre-weaning period to promote growth and development. It typically consists of a blend of ingredients designed to provide essential nutrients beyond what they receive from their mother's milk. The purpose of a calf starter ration is to maximize daily weight gain, reduce feed costs and to set the foundation for future health and productivity. Using calf starter rations are important because the early stages of a calf's life are crucial for its long-term growth and resilience.

What does 'daily weight gain' mean in the context of raising calves, and why is it closely monitored?

Daily weight gain refers to the amount of weight a calf gains each day, usually measured in grams or kilograms. It's a critical indicator of the calf's health and nutritional status. Maximizing daily weight gain during the pre-weaning period is essential for ensuring that calves grow into healthy and productive adults. The study examined how different calf starter rations impacted the daily weight gain of Ongole grade calves. Daily weight gain is an important metric because it reflects the efficiency of feed utilization and the overall health of the animal.

What are soybean groats and why are they important in calf nutrition?

Soybean groats are a key ingredient in calf starter rations, derived from soybeans. They are a valuable source of protein and energy for young calves, promoting muscle development and overall growth. According to a study, calf starter rations with soybean groats lead to the highest daily weight gain. Soybean groats are significant because they provide essential amino acids and nutrients that are crucial for calf development during the pre-weaning stage. The other feed components used included rice bran, rejected bread and Gliricidia.

What is Gliricidia, and why is it being considered in calf feeding programs?

Gliricidia is a type of leguminous plant that can be used as a feed supplement for calves. It's often combined with other ingredients, such as soybean groats, to create a balanced and cost-effective calf starter ration. According to a study, a blend of soybean groats and Gliricidia leaves emerged as the most cost-effective option. While it may not result in the absolute highest daily weight gain, it offers a good balance between growth and affordability. Gliricidia is important because it provides a sustainable and economical alternative to more expensive feed ingredients.

What are Ongole grade calves, and why were they specifically studied?

Ongole grade calves are a specific breed of cattle known for their hardiness and adaptability. The study focused on evaluating the effects of different calf starter rations on the daily weight gain of pre-weaning Ongole grade calves. Understanding the nutritional needs of Ongole grade calves is crucial for optimizing their growth and productivity. Other breeds might respond differently to the same feed rations, so it's important to tailor feeding strategies to the specific characteristics of the breed.