Calf Housing
In traditional calf-raising systems, calves are individually housed until they are weaned off milk replacer at approximately 56 days of age. Individual housing emerged as a management strategy because calves are highly susceptible to diseases, which can increase morbidity and mortality rates. This system allows producers to focus on sick calves while minimizing the risk of spreading infections to the rest of the herd.
In recent years, academic research has advocated for housing calves in pairs or groups from birth, leading to pressure on the industry to adopt this approach. However, this shift in management style has met resistance from some producers. In this article, we will discuss the potential benefits and risks of pair housing calves.
Health
The primary concern with pair housing is the risk of disease transmission between calves. Commercial producers often argue that since some calves will inevitably get sick, keeping them separated reduces the overall risk. While this concern is valid, strategies can be implemented to mitigate this risk.
Research on pair and group housing for calves has produced mixed results. Generally, the larger the group of calves, the greater the health challenges. However, studies have also shown instances where small groups or pair-housed calves experienced a lower incidence of diarrhea compared to individually housed calves. Furthermore, research indicates that group-housed calves do not necessarily have an increased risk of respiratory diseases.
Regardless of housing practices, the most effective way to protect calves from disease is through proper colostrum management and administration. This involves providing newborn calves with at least one gallon of high-quality colostrum (containing >22% IgG) within the first 12 hours of life. Adequate colostrum intake ensures successful passive transfer of immunity, enabling calves to fight infections effectively during their first 21 days of life.
In addition to colostrum, the housing environment and nutrition play critical roles in calf health. Clean, dry bedding reduces the pathogen load in calf pens, while good ventilation minimizes bacterial and mold growth that can lead to intestinal and respiratory issues. Proper nutrition is equally vital for supporting a growing calf’s immune system. Calves face numerous stressors during their first months, and balanced nutrition not only helps them recover from infections, but also promotes continuous growth.
Performance
Pair or group housing has been shown to positively impact calf performance. Calves housed together often begin eating starter feed earlier, resulting in greater grain intakes both before (0.25–1.0 lbs.) and after weaning (0.75–2.5 lbs.) compared to individually housed calves.
Additionally, group-housed calves typically achieve higher average daily gains (ADG), translating to an average weight increase of 9 lbs. at weaning. Despite concerns about disease susceptibility, there is no evidence suggesting that group-housed calves underperform compared to their individually housed counterparts.
Social Aspects
Cattle are naturally herd animals, thriving in social environments. Housing calves in pairs or small groups allows them to interact, play, and learn from each other. This socialization contributes to faster adoption of solid feed and higher feed intake pre- and post-weaning.
Studies also indicate that calves raised in pairs or small groups adapt better to changes later in life. For instance, when transitioned to large group pens post-weaning, individually housed calves often experience a delay in growth as they adjust, whereas pair- or group-housed calves adapt more quickly, maintaining their growth rates and feed intake.
From a broader perspective, there is increasing consumer interest in animal welfare, including calf rearing practices. While consumer scrutiny on calf management remains limited, the possibility of pair or group housing becoming an industry standard in response to societal concerns is a point of discussion among researchers and producers.
Practicality
One of the exciting yet challenging aspects of raising is that every operation has its own approach to achieving success. What works for one operation may not work for another, making pair or group housing a situational choice.
For example, Jersey calves, which require a higher-energy diet, might benefit from pair or group housing during winter months as they can share body heat to stay warm. In contrast, Holstein or beef × dairy crossbred calves may not derive the same benefits. Similarly, dairy operations raising their own calves face less risk in pair housing compared to calf ranches that comingle calves from multiple sources.
Ultimately, each operation must assess its capabilities and evaluate the risks and benefits of pair or group housing. For producers looking to explore this management style, consult your Esmilco representative for guidance on raising healthier, faster-growing calves.
