New methods of calf rearing give farmers many options

According to ICBF heifers accounted for 23% of calvings last year.

Based on available data, dairy cow numbers are expected to increase by 2.5% this year and over 4% in 2013 despite heavy culling. (See table below)

This trend is likely to continue and cause severe over quota problems until after 2015. So many farmers will be forced to feed whole milk to calves. In the process they may feed excessive quantities and exacerbate bloat or scour problems.