The quality of yak rearing directly affects the success of dairy cow development. According to the growth stages of dairy cows, calves are defined as yaks born up to six months old. Yaks have relatively weak immunity, making them prone to illness, especially when not properly managed. The incidence and mortality rates are particularly high in summer and winter, with mortality reaching up to 50%. Common diseases include digestive tract issues such as gastroenteritis and diarrhea. There are three main causes: first, congenital factors—such as a lack of vitamins in the diet of pregnant and lactating yaks, like feeding too much dry stalks or cottonseed cakes and insufficient green feed or carrots; second, acquired factors—newborn yaks should consume colostrum within two hours of birth, but this is often neglected; third, poor management after birth, leading to infections from gastrointestinal pathogens.
To prevent diarrhea in calves, three key strategies should be implemented. First, increase the amount of green feed given to pregnant and lactating yaks, including barnyard grass, silage, hay, and carrots, while reducing the use of dry corn and cottonseed cakes. Moldy grass must be strictly avoided. Second, ensure that newborn yaks consume colostrum within two hours of birth. They are not afraid of colostrum and should receive it as soon as possible. The initial intake should be 1–2 kg, adjusted based on the calf's size. Third, follow proper feeding methods by adhering to the "three fixed" principles: regular feeding times, fixed milk temperature, and fixed quantity. Feed three times daily at 7:00 AM, 2:00–3:00 PM, and 9:00 PM. Keep the milk temperature between 38–40°C, using warm water in winter or boiling and cooling the milk to 40°C if necessary. The feeding quantity should be adjusted accordingly: morning (2–2.25 kg), afternoon (1.5 kg), and evening (2–2.25 kg). As the calf grows, the amount can be increased, but should not exceed 7.5 kg per day.
If diarrhea occurs, medications such as furazolidone, sulfamethoxazole, or anti-diarrheal drugs can be used. Dosages should be controlled within adult ranges. In severe cases with dehydration, intravenous fluids may be required. Two important points to note during feeding are: avoid adding soybean meal or cornmeal to the milk, and do not add water to the milk. Water should be offered 30 minutes to an hour after feeding, with a temperature between 20–40°C. In summer, calves need more water, and insufficient water can lead to excessive drinking, causing hemolysis and hematuria.
Yaks can start being introduced to solid food at 5–8 days old, with safe introduction between 15–30 days. At this stage, small amounts of hay can be given, but straw should be avoided. A reference feed formula for calves includes 18% soybean meal, 20% wheat bran, 10% sorghum, 47% corn, 1.0% bone meal, 2.0% calcium phosphate, 1.0% sodium bicarbonate, and 1.0% salt. Calves can eat this compound feed freely, with daily intake generally not exceeding 1 kg, depending on their size. The feeding period usually lasts about two months, with adjustments based on milk production.
Weaning is a critical phase in calf rearing. Successful weaning is essential for the overall success of calf raising. It is safer to wean in spring or autumn, as summer and winter increase the risk of digestive infections and colds, which can lead to diarrhea. Weaning typically takes about one week, starting with porridge, and gradually transitioning over two weeks.
During yak breeding, it’s crucial to maintain milk quality. Avoid using spoiled or clotted milk. Ideally, use milk produced by the mother yaks. Monitor yaks for any abnormal signs, especially in the morning. Yaks require sunny, well-ventilated areas. It’s recommended to keep each cow in individual pens to prevent biting injuries. The ideal barn temperature is 10–25°C. In winter, cover the barn with plastic sheets, and in summer, place them in shaded, ventilated areas. Avoid using straw for bedding. Maintain cleanliness in the barn and outdoor areas, and eliminate mosquitoes in summer to prevent disease transmission. Remove sharp objects like shells, wires, and plastic bags to avoid injuries.
Finally, during the breeding and management of yaks, attention should be given to preventing infectious diseases through timely vaccination against foot-and-mouth disease, Pasteurella, Clostridium perfringens, and Japanese encephalitis. This ensures successful yak rearing and lays a strong foundation for future dairy cow breeding.
Author: Qifenghar, Animal Epidemic Prevention and Quarantine Station, Tiefeng District.
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