Early mother-calf separation on dairy farms causes acute distress to both cow and calf, with growing industry interest in extended contact systems.
Immediate mother-calf separation causes acute stress responses in both animals, including intense vocalisation, pacing, reduced feed intake, and elevated cortisol levels. The bond formed in the first hours and days after birth is disrupted at its most intense phase. Research shows calves reared with maternal contact show better social development, resilience to stress, and exploratory behaviour. Extended contact systems have logistical and economic costs but are increasingly seen as achievable.