Programs for Cattle

Good calf rearing practices are crucial on cattle farms. Calves are the start of the future herd. Because the calve’s stomachs aren’t fully developed during their first weeks of live they are put on a milk based ration. In their first days an adequate colustrum uptake is crucial, via the colostrums antibodies are transferred from cow to calf to form a first barrier against infections. In order to develop real ruminants and to lower the costs for rearing a rapid shift from milk to forages is needed. The foundations for future growth and production are made during the calves first three months of life. During this period the rumens papillae are formed and this can only be achieved by a substantial intake of fermentable carbohydrates abundantly found in concentrates. In a later phase the rumen’s volume has to enlarge through a sufficient intake of forages. BIVIT developed a starter to ensure a smooth, safe and rapid transit from milk to concentrates.

BIVIT has developed a full program of products for dairy cattle. Initially the product pallet consisted mainly of mineral mixtures for dry and lactating cows. But considering the special needs of high producing dairy cattle this assortment was rapidly extended with special products enhancing fertility, production and sustainability. These mixtures can be used as well by the dairy farmer as the feed company. Good forages are a key component for economical and sustainable milk production, and these forages are the starting point for the formulation of a specific product. A balanced ration promotes rumination and has correct balances of glucogenic, aminogenic and lipogenic nutrients. Besides these macro-nutrients also micro-nutrients like minerals and electrolytes are taken into account. Depending on the production stage specific needs for minerals, vitamins and other specific nutrients differs substantially. The BIVIT products are developed according to the most recent insights considering prevention and recovering from milk fever, grass tetany, fatty liver, ketosis, acidose, mastitis, metritis, … Specific problems like a high somatic cell count can be solved through administration of specific minerals or vitamins. The BIVIT dairy cattle program mainly consists of mineral mixtures and  a complete feed to promote a smooth and lactation start.

BIVIT developed mineral mixtures to provide suckling and meat cattle for essential vitamins, minerals and trace elements. Besides the basic requirements the emphasis is on fertility, growth, meat and karkas quality. Maximisation of farm grown forages and cereals is taken into account when formulating. A well performing rumen is the cornerstone of the whole concept. Therefore living yeasts and buffers are supplemented assuring good functioning of the rumen, especially in concentrate rich rations. In the growing phase starch will be the main energy source, in the finishing phase extra fat is added in order not to overload the starch metabolism and to reduce feed intake. Incorporation of extra vitamin E and organic selenium guarantees a good meat quality.