Abstract: Whole milk and at least one additional nutrient source are mixed to reach an admixture of about 10 to about 17 percent total solids on a dry matter basis, where about 20 to about 26 percent of the total solids is protein, and where about 16 to about 25 percent of the total solids is fat. The admixture and a starter feed are fed to one or more young animals so that they receive at least 0.75 lbs. of total solids on a dry matter basis per day from the admixture. In response to ingesting the admixture, starter feed intake is increased and improved performance results. The level of the additional nutrient source(s) in the admixture may be calculated based on a compositional analysis of the available whole milk and a dietary target for the young animals. The compositional analysis may be performed at the location where the young animals are fed.