Calf-raising plays a crucial role in dairy operations, with the primary objectives during a calf’s early weeks being the development of a strong immune system and effective rumen stimulation. Achieving these goals enables low-stress weaning by six weeks of age or earlier. According to a USDA survey, over 58% of producers wean their calves between six and eight weeks, while more than 15% delay weaning until 12 weeks or later.
The Benefits of Early Weaning
Reducing the weaning period lowers feed and labor costs while promoting efficient growth. Earlier weaning minimizes digestive upsets as calves transition to dry feed and enhances their ability to process cost-effective concentrates and forages at a younger age. With an appropriate diet and good health, a calf can be safely weaned at four weeks.
Rumen Development and Nutrition
A calf is born with an underdeveloped rumen. The intake and digestion of dry feed produce volatile fatty acids (VFAs), which drive rumen development. Grains provide a superior source of these essential fermentation byproducts compared to hay. The physical bulk of forage does not significantly contribute to rumen maturation and, if introduced too early, can slow both rumen development and calf growth.
While effective fiber is essential, young calves can meet this requirement without conventional forage. High-fiber grains and grain by-products in a commercial calf starter can adequately supply the necessary fiber. Given their high energy demands and low dry matter intake, feeding hay—even of high quality—can reduce calves’ overall energy consumption.
Strategies to Promote Early Rumen Development
To facilitate early weaning and optimal rumen function, consider the following best practices:
- Introduce high-quality calf starter early. Offer starter feed from three days of age, changing it daily to maintain freshness. Contaminants like saliva, mold, and flies can reduce intake. Commercially prepared starter feeds, designed for palatability and texture, encourage consumption.
- Encourage dry feed intake. Placing a small amount of starter in the calf’s mouth after milk feeding or in the bucket post-feeding can stimulate interest in solid food.
- Provide clean, fresh water daily starting at one week of age. Water quality should match human consumption standards, as access to fresh water significantly improves starter intake.
- Wean based on starter intake. A calf is ready for weaning when it consumes 0.7 kg of starter daily for two consecutive days, typically occurring between four and six weeks of age.
- Introduce forages strategically. Forage should be introduced only after six weeks when the calf is consuming over 0.9 kg of grain per day.
Careful nutritional management during this period sets the foundation for healthier, more productive dairy calves, ultimately benefiting both animal welfare and operational efficiency.
