The quality of yak rearing is closely linked to the success of dairy cow management. Calves, defined as yaks under six months of age, are particularly vulnerable during their early development stages. Yaks have weak immune systems and are prone to illness, especially in summer and winter when disease incidence is high. Mortality rates can reach up to 50%, often due to gastrointestinal issues such as gastroenteritis and diarrhea. These problems stem from three main causes: first, congenital factors, such as a lack of essential vitamins in pregnant and lactating cows, which may result from feeding dry stalks, excessive cottonseed cake, or insufficient green feed and carrots; second, acquired factors, such as not allowing newborn calves to consume colostrum within two hours of birth; and third, poor management leading to bacterial infections in the digestive system.
To prevent diarrhea in calves, three key strategies should be implemented. First, increase the amount of green feed provided to pregnant and lactating cows, including barnyard grass, silage, hay, and carrots, while reducing the use of dry corn and cottonseed cake. Moldy feed must be strictly avoided. Second, ensure that newborn yaks consume colostrum as soon as possible after birth—ideally within two hours. The initial feeding should be 1–2 kg, depending on the calf's size, and gradually increased as the calf grows. Third, maintain proper feeding practices by following the "three fixed" approach: regular feeding times, fixed milk temperature, and controlled quantities. Feed calves three times daily—at 7 a.m., 2–3 p.m., and 9 p.m.—with milk kept at 38–40°C. In winter, warm water can be used, or milk can be boiled and cooled to 40°C. Quantities should be adjusted based on age, with morning feedings around 2–2.25 kg, afternoon around 1.5 kg, and evening around 2–2.25 kg, not exceeding 7.5 kg per day. If diarrhea occurs, medications like furazolidone, sulfamethoxazole, or antidiarrheal agents can be used, with dosages adjusted according to adult guidelines. Severe cases may require intravenous fluids to combat dehydration.
When feeding calves, avoid adding soybean meal or cornmeal to their milk, and never add water directly. Instead, provide clean water 30 minutes to an hour after feeding, with a temperature between 20–40°C. In summer, ensure calves have access to more water to prevent overconsumption, which could lead to hemolysis and blood in the urine. Calves can begin grazing on small amounts of hay at 5–8 days old, and by 15–30 days, they can safely eat hay without straw.
A recommended yak feed formula 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 have free access to this compound feed, with daily intake generally not exceeding 1 kg, adjusted based on individual size. Feeding typically lasts for about two months, depending on milk availability.
Weaning is a critical phase in calf development. Successful weaning significantly impacts overall calf survival. It is safer to wean in spring or autumn, as summer and winter increase the risk of digestive issues and colds. A gradual weaning process, lasting about two weeks, is recommended, starting with porridge or soft food. Weaning usually begins around 50 days of age.
Maintaining milk quality is essential. Avoid using spoiled or solidified milk, and prefer self-produced milk whenever possible. Monitor yaks daily, especially in the morning, for any signs of illness. Yaks should be kept in sunny, well-ventilated areas, and it's best to house them individually to prevent injuries. The ideal barn temperature is 10–25°C, with plastic sheeting in winter and shaded, ventilated spaces in summer. Avoid using straw for bedding to keep the area clean.
Cleanliness in the barn and exercise areas is crucial, especially in summer, to control mosquitoes and other disease vectors. Remove sharp objects and avoid materials like plastic bags or woven fabrics that could cause injury. Regular vaccination against diseases such as foot-and-mouth disease, Pasteurella, Clostridium perfringens, and Japanese encephalitis is essential to ensure healthy yak breeding and successful dairy cow production.
Author: Qifenghar, Animal Epidemic Prevention and Quarantine Station, Tiefeng District.
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