Question

What is recommended to sprinkle on the new born calf's body in order to induce its licking by the dam?

• A. Luke warm water
• B. Tobacco powder
• C. Dam's urine
• D. Common salt

Hint:

Licking stimulates the calf to pass its first stool, called "meconium". If the dam does not lick the calf, the handler should dry it manually using clean straw or a towel.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Immediately after birth, it is important for the mother (dam) to lick her newborn calf to dry its coat, stimulate breathing and blood circulation, and encourage it to stand and nurse.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Sometimes, particularly with first-calf heifers, the dam may ignore her newborn calf.
To encourage maternal licking, farmers traditionally sprinkle a small amount of clean common salt (sodium chloride) on the calf's wet body.
The taste of the salt attracts the dam, prompting her to lick the calf.
This maternal licking serves several essential purposes:
- It dries the coat, helping the calf maintain its body temperature.
- The physical friction stimulates the calf's respiratory center, helping clear mucus from its airways.
- It helps establish a strong maternal bond, which is important for milk let-down.
Other options (such as tobacco powder, lukewarm water, or urine) are either ineffective or unsafe.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The recommended substance is Common salt.