Effects of Addition of Fiber to Simplified and to Complex Starters Fed to Young Dairy Calves

Effects of adding fiber (10% cottonseed hulls) to simplified and to complex calf starters, fed as the only dry feed to four groups of eight calves each, were investigated.The simplified calf starter consisted of ground corn grain, soybean meal, and supplements of vitamins, minerals, and an antibiotic.The complex starter contained soybean meal, linseed meal, wheat bran, cracked corn, corn meal, crimped oats, alfalfa meal, cane molasses, dried whey, animal fat, and supplements of vitamins, minerals, and an antibiotic.Additions of fiber to the simplified and the complex starters resulted in increased feed consumption and weight gains.Estimated net energy requirements per unit of gain were similar.Weight gains and energy requirements per kilogram of gain were similar for calves fed either complex or simplified starters.General appearance and incidences of diarrhea were not affected by the dietary differences.Results of this research suggest that when a starter is used as a complete feed for young calves, too low a fiber level reduces weight gains.There is a strong trend toward the use of complete feeds for cattle.To use feeds of this type most advantageously for young calves, additional information concerning performance on diets of different fiber content is needed.When all factors, including labor, are considered, a starter made from corn grain and soybean meal plus vitamin, mineral, and antibiotic supplements usually is the most economical way of supplying the theoretical nutrient requirements of young calves.Those fed this type of starter ad libitum plus hay performed as well as those fed either a complex starter or a simplified starter plus a bulky-fibrous additive (4).When fed hay and starter, young