Ground conditions are poor and grass covers are dwindling on farms. Where farms are still carrying strong covers at present, there is a huge challenge to utilise this grass without poaching swards.
With limited fields capable of carrying livestock, many farmers will have to start housing cattle for the winter over the next fortnight.
The main issue with early housing is that weather, while wet, is still extremely mild. Warm, muggy temperatures increase the risk of respiratory problems, particularly in younger animals, with spring-born calves extremely susceptible.
If calves have to be housed, then following some of the outlined steps will help to manage animals through the process.
1. House calves in small groups
Housing calves in small groups is recommended, rather than housing all animals on the same day.
Not only does it reduce stocking density in sheds, it is easier to monitor and treat groups of five or six calves for signs of pneumonia. Allow calves to settle in sheds before housing the next group.
2. Do not wean calves at housing
On farms with limited creep areas, there will be a temptation to start weaning calves as they are being housed.
Weaning at housing time should be avoided at all costs. Weaning will increase stress levels in calves, thereby increasing the risk of a pneumonia outbreak.
If housing in small groups, focus on bringing in the strongest calves first, so that weaning can start once animals are settled in the shed. This will free up creep space for the youngest calves.
Remember that under BEEP, calves should be eating concentrates at least four weeks before the start of the weaning process and two weeks post-weaning.
3. Clipping
Before housing, clipping calves will help to keep animals cooler in sheds. Clip a strip at least 6in wide either side of the spine, as well as the animal’s head and neck.
4. Can calves creep outdoors?
If possible, allowing calves to creep outside during the day will improve calf health. For example, can handling pens be utilised as calf creeps during daytime or can temporary pens be erected adjacent to cattle sheds?
An alternative is to let calves creep outside to grazing paddocks beside the yard. Calves will quickly learn to move in and out of sheds, especially when concentrates are offered in troughs.
5. Increasing airflow in sheds
Before housing calves, make sure there is plenty of fresh air moving through sheds. If necessary, remove tin or timbers from the sides of sheds, but be careful not to create a draught.
Calves should be housed in sheds with good ventilation and plenty of natural light. If sheds have a build-up of dust and cobwebs, this is a good indication that airflow is poor and calves will be at a higher risk of pneumonia.
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