MOJ
eISSN: 2573-2919
Submit manuscript...
Research Article Volume 11 Issue 1
Calf feeding management in dairy farms: a technical analysis of breeder practices based on survey findings
Mustafa Güçlü Sucak, Serap Göncü
Received: February 07, 2026 | Published: February 18, 2026
Citation: Sucak MG, Göncü S. Calf feeding management in dairy farms: a technical analysis of breeder practices based on survey findings. MOJ Eco Environ Sci. 2026;11(1):23-28. DOI: 10.15406/mojes.2026.11.00376
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate breeder practices related to calf feeding management and the use of feeding equipment in dairy farms based on quantitative survey data. The research material consisted of data obtained from face-to-face questionnaires administered in 48 dairy cattle farms. The survey included questions on calf-feeding methods, milk feeding temperature and timing, the use and cleaning of feeding equipment, and common health problems observed in calves. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. According to the results, calves were fed using bottles in 56.3% of the farms, nipple buckets in 14.6%, and natural suckling in 18.8% of the farms. Regarding milk temperature, 37.5% of breeders fed milk at 35–37 °C, 27.1% at 38–40 °C, while 12.5% did not measure milk temperature prior to feeding. Diarrhea was identified as the most common health problem in calves, with a prevalence of 72.9%. In terms of feeding equipment hygiene, 60.4% of breeders reported cleaning equipment after each use, whereas 16.7% performed cleaning once daily. The most commonly used cleaning methods were hot water and soap (39.6%) and boiling water or sterilization procedures (45.8%). In conclusion, the study revealed considerable variability in calf-feeding practices and hygiene management among dairy farms. Inadequate control of milk temperature and deficiencies in cleaning practices may be associated with the high incidence of diarrhea observed in calves. These findings highlight the need for wider implementation of standardized calf-feeding protocols and the expansion of training programs aimed at improving breeder knowledge and management practices.
Keywords: dairy farming, calf feeding, management, equipment, nipple, bucket, bottle
©2026 Sucak, et al. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and build upon your work non-commercially.
Citations
Media Partner & Supporters
