Weaning and separation of calves from cows causes significant documented distress in both animals, and management practices can substantially reduce this welfare impact.
Maternal bonding in cattle is strong and scientifically well-documented. Abrupt separation causes acute grief-like responses with measurable physiological and behavioural indicators of distress in both cow and calf. Two-stage fence-line weaning, where calves can see but not suckle mothers, significantly reduces these markers.