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Management usually leads to smaller calves at birth , it can explain some weak calves , research shows .
“ Good feeding management that provides balanced nutrition to the cow can help prevent weak calves ,” Hoppe says .
A study at the University of Idaho found fewer cases of weak calf syndrome when the mothers were fed a higher level of protein 60 days before calving .
The researchers reported that cows receiving lategestation rations with more than 10 percent crude protein had offspring with a 0.6 percent incidence of weak calf syndrome , while cows receiving rations with less than 10 percent crude protein had calves with an 8.5 percent incidence of weak calf syndrome .
Cows with a body condition score of 3 or 4 are more likely to have offspring with weak . calf syndrome than cows with more body fat , Hoppe notes . The lack of body fat isn ’ t the only issue involved , although it is a good physical indication .
“ When protein content in feeds is low , it indicates other nutrients also may be less than required ,” he adds . “ These nutrients include calcium , phosphorus , copper , zinc and selenium .”
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