Dairy calf welfare from birth to weaning sets the foundation for lifetime health and productivity, with key welfare events including colostrum management and separation.
Dairy calf welfare begins at birth with colostrum management that determines immune competence for life. Calves that fail to receive adequate colostrum have compromised immunity and higher disease susceptibility throughout life. The first weeks of life in individual housing deny calves social interaction that is fundamental to bovine nature. Pair and group housing from an early age provides significant welfare benefits. Weaning age affects both nutritional and social welfare. Welfare-focused calf management addresses colostrum delivery, social housing, enrichment provision, and appropriate weaning age to optimise welfare during this critical developmental period.