A Review of Failure of Passive Transfer in Calves, Factors affecting Immunoglobulin Transfer and Methods of Testing for Failure of Passive Transfer

Abstract

Calf mortality due to inadequate passive transfer will always be a problem in the dairy industry. Intensification has led to a worldwide change of animal husbandry and management especially in more developed countries. Decreased economic value of calves has led to a focus by the industry on more profitable sectors, resulting in farmers/dairy workers spending less time on new-born calf management. In consequence, FPT has remained a massive problem and cost to the industry, yet through regular testing of colostrum and calves’ serum, FPT can be reduced to a minor problem once the information is applied in practice.