The separation of calves from their mothers shortly after birth is standard in dairy farming and is increasingly scrutinised for its welfare impacts on both.
Early mother-calf separation causes measurable distress in both animals, including vocalisation, reduced feed intake, and behavioural indicators of grief. Longer contact periods reduce these effects but require system changes. Some farms are trialling extended contact or automatic calf feeders with improved outcomes. The issue touches on fundamental questions about animal family bonds.