Microbiota of newborn calves and their mothers reveals possible inoculation routes for gastrointestinal microbiota

The aim of the study was to examine the faecal microbiota of newborn calves after birth and to evaluate possible transfer routes from their mothers. Faecal samples were taken repeatedly from 15 Holstein Friesian calves` rectum (within 0.5, 6, 12, 24 and 48 hours post natum) from one large commercial dairy farm. Furthermore, samples from the calves` mouth and the dam (vaginal swabs and faeces immediately after parturition, and first colostrum) were included to evaluate possible sources of the calves` faecal microbiota and to define a core microbiota in these samples.