Management practices that influence the welfare of calves on small family farms

Abstract

In this Research Reflection we review management practices in small family farms with less than 100 cows. Small farms represent the majority of farms in the EU and the world, and they are of great importance for the economy of a country. On cattle farms, the welfare of calves is of primary importance for the profitability of the herd, and poor management is one of the main factors influencing calf health and survival. Data on the risk factors for calf welfare issues in small-scale farms are limited. For this purpose, the literature data from six world countries were presented and compared, including Serbia and Slovenia where a survey related to the issue was carried out within the COST Action FA1308, DairyCare. Some practices within the following areas in calf management were considered: calving management, care for new-born calves, use of painful procedures, colostrum management, cow–calf separation, calf feeding, weaning, calf housing, and general monitoring. In each of the countries, the health and welfare of calves are threatened by some omissions in rearing practices and the major are related to the new-born calf management, the feeding and watering management, and the application of hygienic measures. Many farmers are well aware of the importance of proper calf rearing; others would need more incentive to improve calf management. Each country should pay attention to the education of farmers about the most common deficiencies in calf management.

Production and Health Management from Grazing to Confinement Systems of Largest Dairy Bovine Farms in Azores: A Farmers’ Perspective

“…All these needs detected in the present study indicate an urgent necessity for improvement in farmer education, as previously seen in other regions [ 49 ]. Assuring that the farmers have the knowledge and equipment to record their own data, and are then able to calculate and interpret basic indicators, is essential to the early detection of diseases and problems [ 2 ].…”

“…Rearing the animals is a very sensitive part of the production system, with correct hygiene, general management, and appropriate colostrum administration being essential to prevent the main health problems for young cattle: enteric and respiratory diseases being responsible for the highest mortality and morbidity rates [ 48 , 49 , 50 ].…”

“…Indeed, diarrhea and pneumonia in calves were the main problems faced by Azorean farmers, which is another issue to be addressed. In addition to direct losses [ 49 ], it is known that calves raised without diarrhea and/or pneumonia achieve greater longevity, yield, and profitability; furthermore, they are healthier cows [ 53 ]. In our study, FMP farms more frequently had calf sheds, administered colostrum for more days, and utilized more preventive measures in rearing than MMS farms did, evidencing poorer rearing management on these MMS farms.…”

Introduction: special issue themed section on milk production with cow and calf together

“…(2020) and Relić et al . (2020) in the last two papers in the previous section of this issue. The growing concern among farmers and consumers over possible adverse effects on cows and calves from separation is driving an increase in farms across Europe keeping cows and calves together.…”

“…There are many very good arguments for this practice but there are also good reasons to study alternatives. Some of the challenges with raising calves separated from their dams are commented on by Mikuš et al (2020) and Relić et al (2020) in the last two papers in the previous section of this issue. The growing concern among farmers and consumers over possible adverse effects on cows and calves from separation is driving an increase in farms across Europe keeping cows and calves together.…”