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The development of animals requires a sterile environment, and with mammals we call this place the womb. But after birth, the newborn enters a world with millions of bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens that may cause disease or even death. It is important that the newborn develop a healthy immune system so it is less likely to become diseased. While humans receive 90% of immunoglobulins, essential proteins that respond and protect the body, via the placenta, dogs and cats receive only 5-10%, and unfortunately, livestock receive no immunoglobulins. This is why it is important for livestock to receive immunoglobulins in some other way.
Colostrum is another way immunity is transferred between a mother and her newborn. Colostrum is the first secretion from the mammary glands of mothers after parturition. Colostrum contains leukocytes, lactoferrin, lysozyme, cytokines, lymphokines, proline-rich polypeptides, and immunoglobulins. The mos
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Immunoglobulins consist of five different forms of antibodies like IgM, IgD, IgE, IgG, and IgA. Thus, it is not uncommon for ranchers to force feed calves that won’t willingly get colostrum from their mother. There is a new way to help calves that don’t receive enough colostrum or if their mothers’ don’t produce enough colostrum. Thus, it is critical for animals to obtain as much colostrum as they can during the first day of life. A company called American Protein produces a nutrient supplement that can somewhat replace needed colostrum. This is the only time the immunoglobulins can be absorbed through the gut and intestines of the animal. In fact, the most immunoglobulins are in the colostrum during the first 12 hours (6%) and may decrease to only 1% after 24 hours. First time mothers show lower levels of colostrum quality as well as older cows that don’t receive enough nutrition or proper vaccinations. Because these immunoglobulins, they help defend the body so if a newborn doesn’t receive enough colostrum, they will be more susceptible to disease and infection. IgA immunoglobulins are found in serum where they are secreted into mucous membrane surfaces and prevent the attachment of disease causing agents as well as triggering the immune response. The serum is flash-dried to kill bacteria and viruses, then lactose is added for energy and electrolytes to help prevent dehydration. IgG antibodies make up 80-85% of the immunoglobulins and the blood serum over animals and they protect against circulating bacteria and viruses in all parts of the body. There are a number of reasons why immonoglobulins are important to develop an animal’s first immunity. IgE antibodies mediate allergic and anaphylatic reactions and also serve a minor response to the immune system.
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