Weaning is a critical process in cow-calf operations, marking a significant transition in the life-cycle of beef calves. Effective weaning strategies for beef calves in cow-calf operations can optimize calf health, growth, and future productivity, as well as contribute to the overall efficiency and profitability of the cow-calf operation. Weaning is the process of transitioning calves from mother’s milk to a solid diet. Typically occurring between six to eight months of age, weaning separates the calves from their mothers, which can be a stressful time for both. Proper management during this period is crucial to minimize stress and support the calves' health and development.

Timing and optimal weaning age for beef calves

The optimal weaning age for beef calves in cow-calf operations is six to eight months. The desired weaning weight for beef calves depends on location, nutrition, and genetics, a good calf weaning weight should be around 50% of its mother’s body weight or between 500 and 700 pounds. Weaning beef calves too early or too late can affect calf growth and health. Next to the age of the calf at weaning, the season should be considered. Weaning of beef calves should be timed in such a way that it coincides with favorable weather conditions. This can reduce stress and health issues.

Pre-weaning preparation of beef calves

Carry out regular health checks in the period running up to weaning and ensure calves are vaccinated and dewormed before weaning to boost their immune system and reduce the risk of illness. Introduce calves gradually to weaning feeds for beef calves while they are still with their mothers to familiarize them with the new diet.

Weaning methods for beef calves

Different methods for weaning calves in cow-calf operations exist1 (see Table 1).

• Abrupt weaning, where beef calves are suddenly separated from their mothers, is a straightforward approach but can be highly stressful for both parties.
• Fence-line weaning of beef calves means that the cows are removed from the weaning area to an adjoining pasture and the calves are left in place. This method allows calves to see and hear their mothers while preventing nursing. It reduces stress compared to abrupt separation.
• Two-stage weaning of beef calves utilizes nose flaps to prevent nursing while calves are still with their mothers, followed by physical separation. This method also reduces stress.
  
  

Ensure beef calves have access to high-quality forage or pasture post-weaning to support their nutritional needs. Avoid powdery feed sources that will result in dust irritating eyes leading to rubbing and scratching.

Provide supplements for beef calves or starter feeds rich in protein and energy to promote growth and development in the period around weaning. Trials2,3 have shown that the trace mineral source used in a calf starter for beef calves has an impact on palatability and intake. Calf starters with Selko IntelliBond as trace mineral source are more palatable, leading to a higher intake and better growth as compared to calf starters for beef calves containing sulphate trace minerals (see Figure 2).

Figure 2, Bodyweight gain of calves during the post weaning period of 16 days, one group of calves was fed hydroxy trace minerals, the other group was fed sulfates

The trials also demonstrated that calves with a higher mineral intake had lower cortisol levels and higher plasma ceruloplasmin and haptoglobin levels, indicators of a faster post-weaning recovery (see Figure 3).

Figure 3. Cortisol levels, and plasma ceruloplasmin and plasma haptoglobin levels in calves during the first 16 days after weaning, one group of calves was supplemented with trace minerals and compared to a group of calves not supplemented.

Managing the environment at the time of weaning beef calves

Ensure weaning pens are clean, dry, and spacious to reduce the risk of disease and weaning stress of beef calves. Ensure the water supply is adequate, beef calves should have constant access to clean, fresh water.

Monitoring the weaning process of beef calves

Carry out regular health checks on the calves in the period immediately after weaning. Look for signs of illness, weight loss, or behavioral changes. Allow weaned calves to socialize gradually to reduce stress and aggression. Calves with dry, coarse coats, so-called 'woody calves' did almost certainly not receive enough milk from their mothers and will require high quality feed after weaning.

Improved calf health and growth
Proper weaning practices lead to healthier calves with better growth rates.

Reduced stress
Gradual weaning methods for beef calves and proper preparation minimize stress for both calves and cows, which will improve health and welfare of beef calves.

Enhanced productivity
A well-managed weaning programme for beef calves contributes to the overall productivity of the herd, with calves transitioning smoothly to the next growth stage.

Stress and health issues of beef calves
Stress during weaning of beef calves can lead to health problems. Do not castrate or dehorn beef calves at the same time they are being weaned to further stress that will increase susceptibility of beef calves to disease and reduced weight gain.

A common problem observed after weaning beef calves are respiratory illnesses. Solutions include gradual weaning methods and ensuring calves are healthy and vaccinated against the most common respiratory pathogens of beef cattle before they are weaned. In areas where problems with clostridium are common, vaccination against clostridial diseases is recommended. Particularly if calves are weaned early, the high quality rations they require post-weaning, increase the risk to develop pulpy kidney disease.

Nutritional management of beef calves in the period around weaning
Transitioning calves to a solid diet can be challenging. Providing high-quality forage and appropriate supplements can ease this transition. Rumen microbes can require up to 14 days to completely adapt to a new diet. If beef calves are going to be fed silage after weaning, feed silage to the cow-calf mobs a few times before the calves are being weaned.

Feed calves some post weaning supplement or starter feed while they are still with the cows. Introduce the starter feed or post-weaning supplements to the calves slowly via creep-feeding two weeks before weaning.

Weaning of beef calves is a pivotal stage in cow-calf operations, requiring careful planning and management. By understanding the needs of the calves and implementing best practices, beef producers can ensure a smooth transition, leading to healthier and more productive beef calves. Effective weaning not only benefits the calves but also improves fertility of cows in the herd. An effective weaning programme for cow-calf operations enhances the overall efficiency and profitability of the farm. By adhering to guidelines for weaning beef calves in cow-calf operations and by continuously monitoring and adjusting practices, cow-calf operators can ensure successful weaning and promote the long-term success of their herds.