Talking about how to increase the survival rate of yaks

The calf plays a vital role in the development of a ranch, serving as the future of the herd and the foundation of the entire livestock system. From birth until six months of age, it is considered the "reserve force" of the pasture, the fresh blood of the herd, and the key to long-term productivity. Therefore, it's essential to treat calves with care, ensuring they are raised meticulously and nurtured properly so that they grow into strong, healthy animals that will one day contribute significantly to the ranch. Yak rearing is typically divided into two main stages: the nursing period (from birth to 45–60 days) and the weaning phase (from 45–60 days to 180 days). During the fetal stage, the calf benefits from a stable and protected environment inside the mother’s womb. However, once born, it faces numerous external stressors, such as temperature changes, exposure to pathogens, and environmental challenges. At this stage, the calf's immune system is still underdeveloped, making it highly susceptible to diseases like respiratory infections and diarrhea. Respiratory issues, particularly bronchial pneumonia, and gastrointestinal problems, such as calf diarrhea, are common in young yaks, especially in northern regions where winter temperatures can drop as low as -30°C. These conditions are often exacerbated by poor ventilation, damp environments, and inadequate management practices. If not addressed promptly, these diseases can lead to high mortality rates, reduced growth, and even infertility later in life. Many yak farmers neglect proper care during the early stages, leading to increased health risks and economic losses. Statistics show that the annual elimination rate of yaks can exceed 10%, which is far above the acceptable level of less than 2%. This high loss rate negatively impacts the overall productivity and profitability of the ranch. Proper feeding and management during the calf stage are crucial for ensuring healthy growth, improving survival rates, and laying the foundation for a productive and high-yield herd. To prevent upper respiratory and gastrointestinal diseases, colostrum plays a critical role. Newborn yaks have underdeveloped immune systems and cannot absorb antibodies from their mothers through the placenta. Therefore, it's essential to feed them high-quality colostrum within the first hour of birth. Colostrum is rich in immunoglobulins that help build the calf’s immunity. The initial feeding should be around 1.5–2 kg, or up to 5% of the calf’s body weight. A second feeding of about 5 kg should be given within 24 hours. From day 1 to day 3, the calf should continue to receive colostrum, and then transition to regular milk starting on day 4. Early introduction of solid food, such as grain pellets, around day 5–7 helps stimulate rumen development and prepares the calf for weaning. Weaning usually occurs between 45–60 days, with gradual reduction in milk intake. During this time, it's important to provide a balanced diet rich in energy, protein, and essential nutrients. Clean drinking water must always be available, especially in cold weather when warm water is recommended. Regular cleaning and disinfection of feeding equipment, cowsheds, and grazing areas are necessary to maintain hygiene and reduce disease risk. The living environment should remain dry, well-ventilated, and free from excessive moisture. Reducing stress is also key to preventing illness. In winter, protecting calves from cold drafts and providing warmth can prevent respiratory infections. In summer, reducing herd density and offering shade can help avoid heat stress. Vaccination and preventive measures are essential to keep the herd healthy and productive. For the treatment of bronchial pneumonia, antibiotics such as penicillin, streptomycin, kanamycin, and gentamicin are commonly used. Severe cases may require intravenous treatments, including tetracycline and corticosteroids. For calf diarrhea, a combination of anti-inflammatory drugs, rehydration solutions, and oral medications like norfloxacin, sulfamethoxazole, and berberine can be effective. In severe cases, intravenous fluids and electrolytes may be necessary to restore the calf’s health. Proper care, timely intervention, and consistent management during the calf stage are essential for ensuring a healthy and productive future for the herd.

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