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THE IMPORTANCE OF PASSIVE IMMUNITY FOR THE CALF

Colostrum is essential for the survival of the calf. The first milk contains specific antibodies which can provide resistance against many of the infections which the calf is likely to encounter. The colostrum is also very nutritive as well being laxative. Immunity is actively removed from the blood of the cow and enters the under. It is absorbed from the calf's small intestine due to the permeability of the gut wall and the relative lack of digestive enzymes. This review deals mainly with the importance of the passive immunity, the economic losses due to the lack or inadequate ingestion of colostrum. The factors interfering with the passive immunity are also reviewed. The main forms of prevention and treatment are also mentioned.

colostrum; immunity; calf; immunodeficiency


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