Bovine genetics specialists Cogent has introduced Primestart Colostrum, a water-soluble, fortified colostrum product, which aims to ensure newborn calves are offered a natural, high quality feed at birth.
Primestart Colostrum is fully approved by the Veterinary Medicines Directorate and is guaranteed to be free from TB, EBL, IBR and JOHNES.
“A huge amount of effort and expense goes into getting a calf on the ground, and that calf should offer the best genetics that herd has to offer, so it stands to reason we want to ensure it thrives,” explained Stuart Boothman, managing director for Cogent. “Those first hours are critical and the health, growth and performance of that animal from that point onwards is greatly influenced by the quality and timing of its first colostrum feed.”
Cogent recommends following the three Q’s – quickly, quality and quantity – to maximise the benefit of colostrum. However, Mr Boothman added that management can be tricky. “There are times when it is in short supply or non-existent; it may be low quality or the farmer may be concerned about the maternal health disease status. Or it could be simply there are time restraints and thawing isn’t an option. Primestart Colostrum offers an exceptional substitute; it is high in quality, protects the calf from disease, offers essential nutrients and is easy to use. It can be used with confidence that the calf has received the vital immunoglobulins required to build immunity and promote health.”
Primestart Colostrum is manufactured in the UK and is available in boxes of 12 700kg sachets, or in pallets of 40 boxes. Each sachet is mixed with two litres of warm water and should be fed to each calf within the first six hours of life.
For more information visit www.cogentuk.com