Raising healthy calves Autumn starts with good nutrition, and the first few weeks of life are the most important time.
Whether you're rearing replacements or beef calves, the goal is the same:
Support strong growth
Build immunity
Enable a smooth transition to supplementary feed and pasture.
Here’s some practical advice on what makes a successful calf-rearing programme, and how Nutrinza’s range of calf feeds can support your goals.
It all starts with colostrum
Colostrum is the cornerstone of calf health. It delivers essential antibodies, energy, and nutrients that calves need to thrive. The “three Qs” apply:
Quality
Quantity
Quickness
Aim to feed high-quality colostrum in sufficient volume as soon as possible after birth.
Choose the right milk replacer
Once colostrum feeding is complete, calves can transition to calmilk or a calf milk replacer. We recommend using Blossom Easymix milk replacer, a premium milk replacer that has high digestibility and a good balance of protein and fat. It’s formulated to support optimal growth and gut development, making it an excellent choice for a strong start.
Encourage early intake of quality calf meal
Calves are born with undeveloped rumens, so introducing calf meal early is essential. A high-quality, high-energy calf starter like Nutrinza’s Mega Max Calf Starter helps stimulate rumen development and prepares calves for weaning. Farmers report high palatability, uptake and growth rates achieved from Nutrinza’s Mega Max Calf Starter.
Mighty Max Calf Grower is formulated to support the growth of calves, providing high energy and protein to maximise growth. It contains Bovatec™ for control of coccidiosis, vitamins, trace elements and a probiotic to promote good calf health.
Place small amounts of calf feed in easily accessible troughs and refresh it daily. Pair it with clean, fresh water to support digestion and feed intake.
Base weaning on intake, not age
Weaning should be based on how much solid feed calves consume, not just on their age. A good rule of thumb is to wait until calves are eating at least 1kg of starter feed per day for three consecutive days. This ensures their rumen is ready to take over the job of digestion.
Nutrinza’s Calf Grower feed is ideal for supporting calves through the weaning transition, helping maintain growth and reduce stress.
Hygiene and housing matter
Nutrition is only part of the picture. Clean, dry bedding, good ventilation, and regular cleaning of feeding equipment all help reduce disease risk. Calves should be housed in well-drained, draft-free environments with plenty of space to lie down, play, and move around. Good housing supports natural behaviours and reduces stress, which in turn boosts growth and resilience.
Refer to DairyNZ’s website for further guidance on calf housing, calf health, and hygiene. These resources cover everything from shed design and bedding to ventilation and disease prevention.
Monitor and adjust
Every farm’s different, and so is every calf. Keep an eye on growth rates, feed intake, and health indicators like condition. Adjust feeding plans as needed, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your local rep for advice.
Nutrinza’s team is here to help with tailored feeding solutions and support. Whether you're rearing 100 calves or 1,000, we’re committed to helping you raise strong, healthy animals that perform for years to come.
DISCLAIMER: This information is provided as a general guide only. Every farm and herd is different, so talk to your local Nutrinza rep for recommendations tailored to your system.
