Page 169 - Agriculture_Form_3

Agriculture for Secondary Schools

3. A calf is weaned suddenly at the age of 10 weeks. After that, it was observed
that it eats less and becomes weak after weaning. What mistakes could have
been made during weaning? Explain how weaning should be done properly.
4. Musa wants to sell a three-month-old calf. But the buyer rejects it because
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it is not tagged or disbudded. Why are tagging and disbudding important?
When and how should the two practices be done?

5. A calf in a small pen starts licking walls and sucking other calves. What
is the technical term for this behaviour? What causes it, and how can it be
prevented?

Management of heifers and bulls

After weaning, calves enter a stage called the growing phase. Where the females
are called heifers and the males are called bulls. This period often covers animals
from 3 to 12 months old. Proper management during this stage builds strong and
productive heifers and bulls. Poor care at this stage can lead to sickness, stunted
growth, or early death. Proper practices for housing, feeding, health care, and
selection of growing dairy animals are important in this stage. In the subsequent
sub-sections, the above practices are explained.

Housing for heifers and bulls
Group housing can be used for animals that are of similar size and age. Each
animal needs space to lie down, stand, and move without stress. Pens must
be free from sharp objects and slippery floors. The bedding should be dry and
changed regularly. Good drainage prevents dampness and reduces disease risks.
Where animals are kept outdoors, the fence should be strong to keep animals safe.
Heifers and bulls should be housed separately to avoid early mating or injury.

Feeding for heifers and bulls
Proper feeding is essential for fast and healthy growth. Common feeds include
pasture, crop residues, hay, and concentrate feed. When grasses have poor
quality, up to 2 kg of concentrate per day can be given to the animal. Also, ensure
the availability of clean water and provide mineral blocks or powder to prevent
deficiencies and support bone growth. Feeding should be done at regular times
using clean troughs.

Health care and disease control for growing dairy animals
Dairy animals must be monitored daily for signs of illness. Healthy animals are

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