The first months of a calf's life determine its long-term health trajectory. Welfare-positive rearing practices during this critical period improve both current and lifelong welfare outcomes.
The welfare of dairy and beef calves in the first months of life is shaped by decisions made at every stage of management. Colostrum failure through inadequate intake or poor quality causes immune failure that leads to weeks of illness and suffering. Social isolation in individual hutches prevents expression of social play and maternal bonding behaviours that are fundamental to calf development. Restricted milk feeding at conventional levels leaves calves in a chronic state of hunger that impairs growth and welfare. The transition to solid feed at early weaning causes acute distress as calves are motivated to suckle long beyond 6 weeks. Enhanced milk feeding and pair housing significantly improve calf welfare without compromising health outcomes.