Weaning calves - key considerations

Weaning is a crucial stage that directly influences lifetime performance. Calves should not be weaned based on age alone – they need to reach appropriate weight and rumen development to ensure a smooth transition.

Points to Remember When Weaning Calves

1. Age vs Weight – Don’t Rush

Wean based on weight and rumen development, not just age.

Aim for 80–100kg liveweight depending on breed and at least 1kg/day of meal intake for several weeks before milk is removed.

‍2. Rumen Development

High-quality calf meal or pellets with starch and protein stimulate rumen papillae growth. The better developed the papillae are, the more nutrients the rumen can absorb from the feed offered.

Ensure calves are confidently eating pasture and meal before weaning.

3. Meal Quality Matters

Choose a calf meal with around 20% protein, balanced energy, and minerals.

Fresh, palatable feed encourages better intake.

4. Water Access

Clean, fresh water must always be available – it’s vital for rumen function and calf health.

5. Parasite Control

Calves are very susceptible to worms post-weaning.

Implement a drenching plan and track growth to ensure parasites aren’t limiting performance.

Calf faeces can be tested at the vet clinic for egg counts if there is concern about parasitism

6. Pasture Quality

Offer young, leafy pasture rather than mature or fibrous grass.

Calves need high energy and protein to continue growing well after weaning.

7. Stress Management

Handle calves calmly and keep groups stable.

Avoid weaning during poor weather or feed shortages.

8. Monitor Growth

Regular weighing helps ensure calves are hitting growth targets (0.7–0.8kg/day).

Early detection of slow growers through regular weighing allows timely intervention.

Take-Home Message:

Successful weaning is about more than just milk removal. Balancing nutrition, parasite control, and stress management with proper weight and rumen readiness ensures calves transition smoothly and continue on a path to strong lifetime productivity. Well grown heifers make well grown cows.

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