Calves separating from their dams at weaning can expertise stress, particularly in the event that they bear vaccinations and different processing procedures on the identical time, stated the consultants on the Kansas State College Beef Cattle Institute on a latest Cattle Chat podcast.
“Stress occurs when the calf is uncovered to a brand new or uncommon scenario, so our aim is to scale back the variety of stressors we placed on them at one time,” veterinarian Brad White stated.
Traditionally, calves have been processed on the identical day as they have been weaned because of the labor availability, stated veterinarian Bob Larson, however he added that following that administration plan will not be essentially finest for the calves’ stress degree.
Veterinarian Brian Lubbers provided recommendation on how finest to assist the calves by this transition. “The aim is to unfold out over time issues that may result in decreased stress in calves. So, first start by separating the cows and calves for a number of days earlier than processing. This can permit the calves to get used to the brand new surroundings and alter to their feed and water sources,” he stated.
Lubbers added that on subsequent days assist may be introduced in to do different processing procedures similar to vaccinations and castrations.
One other technique is fence-line weaning. “Fence-line weaning permits the cows to have nose-to-nose contact with the calf through the time of transition in order that bond is damaged extra steadily,” stated nutritionist Phillip Lancaster.
Fence-line weaning is efficient at decreasing stress and the weaning course of can occur rapidly. “With fence-line weaning, the cows and calves usually stroll the fences for the primary 24 hours, and after that they begin leaving one another on their very own,” Larson stated.
The hot button is to verify the fences are sturdy so the calves do not get again in with their moms, Lancaster stated.
Publicity to the brand new surroundings can occur whereas the cows and calves are nonetheless collectively.
“With weaning, we’re altering the calves’ social construction by separating them from their moms in addition to transitioning them to new feed and, in some instances, a brand new water supply,” White stated. “So, when it’s doable it’s good to let the calves discover their new space earlier than they go away their dams.”
Lubbers added: “By spreading out the stressors over time, the calves will probably be higher off from an animal welfare and well being standpoint.”
Supply: Kansas State College Analysis and Extension, which is solely answerable for the knowledge supplied, and wholly owns the knowledge. Informa Enterprise Media and all its subsidiaries usually are not accountable for any of the content material contained on this info asset.
