Influência da proteína sérica do colostro na vida de bezerras: impactos na desmama, imunidade, sanidade e desenvolvimento

Bovine colostrum represents the first mammary secretion after calving, being fundamental for passive immunity transfer in newborn calves. The quality and quantity of serum proteins present in colostrum directly influence various aspects of animal productive life, including optimal weaning age, immune system development, disease resistance, and overall growth. This study aimed to review the scientific literature on the influence of colostrum serum proteins on heifer development, addressing the main impacts on animal health and productivity. The methodology consisted of a bibliographic review of scientific articles, theses, dissertations, and technical books published between 2000 and 2024. The results demonstrate that calves receiving high-quality colostrum with adequate immunoglobulin concentrations (mainly IgG) show better zootechnical performance, lower disease incidence, and higher weaning weight. Failure of passive transfer (FPT) is associated with increased neonatal mortality, greater susceptibility to respiratory and digestive infections, and delayed body development. It is concluded that proper colostrum management is fundamental to ensure the economic viability of calf rearing, requiring the establishment of specific protocols for colostrum quality assessment and passive immunity transfer monitoring