Feature

Feature

By Rachel Witte

Weaning is one of the most stressful transitions in a calf’ s life. For producers, it’ s also one of the most critical times to protect herd health, prevent weight loss and set young animals up for long-term performance. Traditionally, abrupt separation has been the norm, but research shows there’ s a better way. Lowstress weaning methods not only safeguard animal welfare, but also improve immune function, reduce shrink and boost profitability.

In today’ s cattle industry— where margins are tight and buyers demand both performance and animal welfare—“ weaning with ease” is more than good husbandry. It’ s smart business.

The Science Behind Weaning Stress

When calves are suddenly separated from their mothers, their bodies react with a cascade of stress responses. Cortisol levels can spike up to 150 % within three days, triggering systemic changes that suppress immune function. Stress alters the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, lowers lymphocyte activity and makes calves more vulnerable to respiratory diseases such as Bovine Respiratory Disease.

At the same time, stressed calves produce more acutephase proteins such as haptoglobin, signaling inflammation that persists long after separation. Reduced levels of lactoferrin— a protein critical to iron metabolism— further compromises immune defenses. The result? Calves that are slower to adapt, more likely to fall ill and less efficient in converting feed to gain.

Proven Methods

Fenceline Weaning:

Research from Oklahoma State University shows that calves weaned across a sturdy fence, while maintaining sight and sound of their dams, gained 1.5 pounds per day. By comparison, calves separated abruptly gained 0.85 pounds per day. They vocalized 70 % less, spent more time eating and adapted more quickly to solid feed. Two-Step Weaning: Anti-suckling devices( nose flaps) allow calves to remain with their mothers while preventing nursing for 4 to 7 days

September 2025 | www. FarmersHotLine. com | 19