Standard dairy practice separates calves from mothers within hours of birth. Research shows this causes acute distress for both animals, and alternatives exist that can improve welfare.
Separation causes acute distress in both cow and calf. Cows call repeatedly for their calves for 2-5 days following separation. Calves show increased vocalisation, reduced lying, and behavioural signs of anxiety. Both animals show elevated cortisol. The stress of early separation affects calf immune function and disease susceptibility — calves separated earlier have higher disease rates. Extended contact systems that allow calves to nurse alongside managed milking have been implemented successfully on farms of various scales, demonstrating that welfare improvement is compatible with commercial dairying even if it requires management adaptation.