Why is colostrum important for newborn calves?

• A. Provides antibodies
• B. It is the first milk after birth
• C. It contains high lactose
• D. It is milk produced during lactation

Answer: (C)

Colostrum provides antibodies to newborn calves, giving them passive immunity when their own immune system is not yet ready. Calves are born with limited ability to fight infections, and they rely on immunoglobulins from colostrum to protect them during the first days of life. The gut lining of a newborn calf can absorb these antibodies only for a short time, so feeding colostrum promptly—ideally within the first few hours—is crucial for establishing protection. While colostrum is the first milk after birth, its defining purpose is its high antibody (immunoglobulin) content, not lactose level. It’s produced right after birth, before regular milk, and differs from later milk produced during lactation, which has far less immunoglobulin.