Calf Welfare from Birth to Weaning in Dairy Systems

Calf welfare in dairy systems is profoundly affected by colostrum management, housing, nutrition and the timing and management of weaning.

Key Facts

Calves must receive colostrum within 6 hours of birth and 4 litres in the first 24 hours for adequate immunity
Individual housing of calves is being phased out in progressive welfare systems in favour of pair and group housing
Milk allowance in conventional systems is often below that needed for adequate growth and welfare
Gradual weaning over 2-4 weeks causes less stress than abrupt weaning
Extended feeding periods of 6-12 months using milk or milk replacer improve welfare and development significantly

Welfare Considerations

Calf welfare in dairy systems has improved significantly in recent years but continues to lag behind scientific recommendations in many operations. Inadequate milk allowance causes calves to be hungry, perform oral stereotypies and have reduced growth and immunity. Early isolation prevents normal social development. Abrupt weaning causes acute distress measurable through vocalisation, activity and cortisol for days after. Systems providing adequate milk, early socialisation and gradual weaning achieve substantially better welfare outcomes at manageable cost.

What You Can Do

Support dairy certification schemes requiring pair housing from birth and group housing from weaning
Advocate for minimum milk allowance standards that meet calf nutritional and welfare needs
Choose dairy products from farms with confirmed extended calf welfare programmes
Support research into optimal calf management programmes achieving welfare and production goals