Effects of Weaning Strategy on Growth and Stress in Beef Calves

Stephen F Austin State University, Baker Pattillo Student Center, Twilight and Grand Ballrooms

Traditionally, calves are abruptly separated from their cows at approximately 205 days of age to prevent the calf from nursing. This process is commonly known as weaning. Weaning is very stressful for calves not only because of the separation from their dam, but also because of the change in their diet. When calves are weaned stress may result in behavioral changes, such as increased vocalization, pacing, loss of appetite and thirst. Stresses due to weaning may result in a weakened immune system which increases the risk for infection and disease. The objective of this study was to evaluate various weaning strategies in order to determine the best method to add pounds of weight gain on calves and minimizing stress and susceptibility to illness and disease.