Weaning is a pivotal stage in calf rearing that directly influences lifetime performance. For farmers across Waikato and King Country, successful weaning requires more than just removing milk—it demands careful attention to nutrition, rumen development, parasite control, and stress management.
Weaning should be based on liveweight and rumen development, not age alone.
High-quality calf meal or pellets rich in starch and protein stimulate rumen papillae growth, improving nutrient absorption.
Ensure calves are confidently eating pasture and meal before weaning.
Look for:
Water is vital for rumen function and overall calf health.
Ensure constant access to clean, fresh water.
Calves are highly susceptible to worm burdens after weaning.
Young calves need leafy, high-energy pasture—not mature or fibrous grass.
This supports continued growth and development.
Handle calves calmly and keep groups stable.
Avoid weaning during poor weather or feed shortages.
Successful weaning is about more than just removing milk.
Balancing nutrition, parasite control, and stress management—along 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.
Whether you're farming in Te Awamutu, Ōtorohanga, Putaruru, Tokoroa, Cambridge, Hamilton, or surrounding areas, your local Vetora clinic is here to support your calf rearing success. Contact us for tailored advice, drenching plans, and growth monitoring tools.
