Value of Alfalfa Silage in the Diet of the Young Dairy Calf

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Abstract
The value of high quality alfalfa silage in the diet of young Holstein and Guernsey calves was investigated. In two experiments 84 Holstein calves were used to compare the feeding of high quality alfalfa silage as the only roughage with alfalfa hay and with hay and silage ad libitum. Maximum daily starter consumptions of 2, 3 and 5 lb./calf were tested with each forage regime. Ten Guernsey calves were used to compare alfalfa hay and alfalfa silage at a 3-lb. daily starter level. Calves were on trial from 6 or 8 days after birth through 16 weeks of age. Ad libitum feeding of silage as the sole source of roughage resulted in growth response comparable to the feeding of either alfalfa hay, or silage and hay in combination. Decreased dry matter intake was noted when calves were fed on silage alone. Three pounds of starter per calf daily effected normal growth. Type of roughage or level of starter fed had no effect on in vitro fiber digestion by rumen microorganisms taken from the calves. Type of roughage had no effect on development of the rumen.