By Andi Anderson
A new publication from the Iowa Beef Center (IBC) is helping cattle producers confidently and correctly use esophageal feeders to care for young calves.
Titled Proper Use of an Esophageal Feeder, this guide offers clear, step-by-step instructions for preparing, inserting, and removing the feeder tube safely and effectively.
Using an esophageal feeder is a critical part of raising healthy calves, especially when newborns struggle to consume enough colostrum on their own. Ensuring proper feeding at this early stage can significantly improve calf survival and long-term herd success.
Denise Schwab, beef specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, authored the resource. She emphasizes the importance of reading through the guide before an emergency arises.
“Becoming familiar with the steps ahead of time can give producers more confidence and improve outcomes when using the feeder,” she said.
The one-page publication, known as IBC 150, includes more than just written instructions. It also provides helpful links to demonstration videos and illustrations. These visuals show exactly how and where to insert the tube, as well as how to clean the feeding equipment afterward.
The resource is free and available through the ISU Extension store. It’s part of IBC’s ongoing efforts to deliver practical, research-based tools for beef producers across Iowa and beyond.
The Iowa Beef Center was established in 1996 and is based at Iowa State University. It brings together faculty and staff from the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, and Extension and Outreach.
The center’s mission is to support the success and vitality of the state’s beef cattle industry by sharing the latest knowledge and tools.
With this new guide, IBC continues to help producers improve animal care, reduce calf loss, and strengthen farm operations.
Photo Credit: istock-emholk
Categories: Iowa, Education, Livestock, Beef Cattle