Colostrum replacers

A review for veterinary practitioners

Abstract

Veterinary practitioners must understand the differences in immunoglobulin G (IgG) content between different types of colostrum replacers, as well as the efficiency of immunoglobulin absorption from various sources. In a disease control program, to protect against Mycoplasma bovis, Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis exposure, and the potential for exposure to bovine leukemia virus, a colostrum replacer is a viable option to feeding maternal colostrum that might be contaminated with these potential pathogens. Veterinarians should also weigh the convenience, relative simplicity, and accuracy of administering a colostrum replacer versus the expense and intricate protocol necessary to properly manage maternal colostrum. Dried colostrumderived colostrum replacers supply predominately IgG1, while colostrum replacers derived from bovine plasma or serum supply 50% IgG1 and 50% IgG2 immunoglobulins. It is acceptable to utilize colostrum replacers of proven quality in place of raw, pooled or pasteurized maternal colostrum, providing the necessary amount of total IgG is administered for the birth weight of the calf. If administered properly, colostrum replacers can provide passive transfer of immunity for neonatal calves.