Water intakes and other experimental data over 3 yr encompassing 335 calves raised under an early weaning program at the Purina Research Farm were summarized. Water intake closely paralleled calf starter intake particularly during the last 2 wk of the 4-wk feeding period. Calves with weight gains below the median daily gain of 272 g had reduced water and starter intake. Scouring, due apparently to rotavirus infection, peaked at the end of the 1st wk. Water intake did not change appreciably prior to or after peak scouring. Season of year had minor effect on both water and starter intake. In a feeding study with 41 calves, weight gain was reduced by 38% and starter intake by 31% for calves deprived of water. Extent and duration of scouring did not differ between treatments. Calf feeding and management systems should include ad libitum water to maximize starter intake and weight gain. There is no evidence that scouring will be affected negatively by water intake.

Animal health is an important aspect of a preconditioning program; however, average daily gain and feed efficiency are extremely important if the program is to be profitable for the cow:calf producer. Not all calves are stressed to the same degree and as a result, not all calves will respond equally to a given treatment or nutritional level.

Improved performance during the transition period can have a significant impact on a dairy farm's profitability. Nutritional factors that promote dry matter (DM) intake and/or reduce the risk of metabolic disease can be a key factor in a manager's action plan.