Managing the Pre-weaned Calf (original) (raw)

For many years traditional calf rearing programs have stressed early weaning (<6 weeks of age), accelerated development of the rumen and low cost. Recent research has caused a reexamination of this management strategy. Numerous surveys of calf management (NAHMS, 2007) reveal that calf mortality during the milk feeding period (7.8%) continues to be a problem. Additionally, other studies indicate that over 30% of calves are treated for some type of illness prior to weaning. Finally, limit feeding systems require that the calf directs essentially all nutrient intake towards maintenance with little remaining to support growth during this critical time.