Preventing Calf Stress for Better Health and Performance
In mid-April, the Dairy Calf and Heifer Association (DCHA) held its annual meeting and conference in Colorado. I had the opportunity to join calf raisers, veterinarians, consultants, and nutritionists, all working toward the same goal: improving calf care to produce better animals.
The topics covered were wide-ranging — transition milk, breeding and genetics, liver abscesses, vaccinations, and more. During one session, a presenter made a powerful statement: anything that happens to the calf is not the calf’s fault.
At first, this may seem obvious. However, many who work with calves or youngstock still attribute performance issues to the calves themselves, labeling them as “bad” calves.
While it’s true that some “sale barn” calves struggle with health and performance from day one, we must remember that their immune systems respond to the stressors we impose. In our previous article, Understanding Your Calves’ Immune System, we discussed how a calf’s immune system develops during the first months of life and identified a vulnerable window.
To reduce the incidence of so-called “bad” calves, preventive measures must be taken to minimize stress during those critical early months.
Prevention: Building a Strong Foundation
Colostrum
Proper colostrum handling and administration are fundamental to calf success. Calves should receive high-quality colostrum within the first 24 hours of life — ideally within the first 2 hours.
Research indicates calves should receive colostrum containing at least 150 IgGs to establish adequate passive immunity transfer. Without colostrum, calves are immune deficient and highly vulnerable to disease.
Vaccination
Vaccination is another effective strategy for strengthening immune function.
Gestating vaccinated cows pass antibodies to calves through colostrum. After birth, numerous vaccines are available to further protect and support developing immune systems.
Nutrition
Consistency is essential in calf nutrition.
Providing a consistent, performance-focused milk replacer program that meets nutritional requirements significantly improves health and performance. While many feeding methods exist, it is important to identify a system that fits both your operation and your calves.
Environment
Newborn calves are especially vulnerable due to immature immune systems.
Maintaining a clean environment allows calves to direct energy toward growth instead of fighting pathogens. This includes regularly cleaning and disinfecting equipment and ensuring bedding remains clean and dry to minimize bacterial exposure.
Stressors That Impact Calf Health
Transportation
Even short-distance transport is stressful. Transportation can weaken intestinal integrity and suppress immune function.
Before transport, ensure calves are well hydrated and have recently consumed feed to better tolerate the stress.
Dehorning
All dehorning methods induce pain, and effects may linger for several days.
Recent research supports the use of local anesthetics, such as lidocaine, to reduce pain and limit immune suppression. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the most appropriate protocol for your operation.
Weaning
Weaning strategies vary by operation.
Research suggests that keeping calves on milk longer allows more time for rumen development and encourages consistent starter intake (at least 3 pounds per day). While 56 days is often considered standard, some operations adjust weaning timing based on individual calf readiness and performance goals.
Environment (Revisited)
Environment is worth reiterating due to its ongoing impact on calf health.
Clean, sanitized housing and feeding equipment remain essential. Weather conditions also contribute to stress. In warmer climates, heat stress is a concern, and many operations provide electrolytes during summer months to support hydration.
Supporting Calves Through Proactive Management
Raising calves comes with challenges, and there is no single perfect solution. However, proactive management — through proper nutrition, environment, and stress mitigation — plays a critical role in reducing health setbacks.
Providing calves with the resources they need to cope with stress improves both immediate health and long-term performance.
Work with your Esmilco representative to develop a program that protects your calves and minimizes the risk of encountering a “bad” calf.
