References
Newborn calf welfare: effects of birth assistance, colostrum feeding and cow–calf separation
Abstract
If the birth of a calf is poorly managed, it can be associated with reduced welfare in early life. Conversely, optimisation of calving management – in particular judicious (rather than blanket) use of interventions – can contribute to improvements in newborn calf welfare. This article discusses how birth experience can affect newborn calf welfare before considering colostrum feeding and cow-calf separation. Both management practices typically occur in the first hours of life and contribute to the welfare of newborn calves.
Birth can be associated with adverse welfare outcomes in calves, particularly if management is suboptimal. The welfare of calves during birth is difficult to assess, and some authors argue that the unconscious state of calves in utero and during birth (before initiation of breathing) precludes suffering (Mellor and Gregory, 2003; Mellor and Diesche, 2006). Nevertheless, events occurring during birth (especially if assisted) are known to affect the welfare of calves in the immediate post-birth period; therefore, it is important that the calf 's welfare is considered during birth.
The welfare of calves during the birth process has not been researched but a number of studies have investigated the welfare of newborn calves in the immediate post-birth period, often relating newborn welfare to birth experience. Ruminant parturition is initiated by an increase in fetal plasma cortisol concentration and it is normal for plasma cortisol concentration in calves to markedly increase immediately before birth, followed by a rapid decline in the first 24 hours of life (Liggins, 1968; Comline et al, 1974). However, physiological and emotional stress is also associated with increased cortisol concentration as a result of stimulation of adrenocorticotropic hormone production (Figure 1). Accordingly, an increase in cortisol concentration is considered to be indicative of stress and is commonly measured in studies as an indicator of a reduced state of welfare.
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