04/09/2026
1. Check body weight and growth:
Calves should have reached an appropriate weight and be growing consistently before weaning. Do not rely only on age; consider the calf's weight, growth rate and overall condition. Smaller or poorly growing calves may require additional attention before weaning.
2. Check calf health:
Make sure calves are healthy before weaning. Look for signs of disease, coughing, diarrhoea, nasal discharge, poor appetite, weakness or abnormal behaviour. Sick or underperforming calves should be assessed and managed appropriately before weaning.
3. Check feed and water intake:
Ensure calves are eating sufficient solid feed and drinking clean, fresh water before milk is removed. Calves should be accustomed to good-quality forage, pasture and/or appropriate calf starter or concentrate feed. Adequate solid-feed intake is particularly important because the rumen must be sufficiently developed to support the calf after weaning.
4. Check vaccination and parasite control:
Ensure the calf's vaccination programme and parasite-control programme are up to date according to your veterinarian's or animal-health professional's recommendations. Avoid carrying out multiple stressful procedures at the same time as weaning where possible. MSD Animal Health Academy
5. Check weather and environment:
Schedule weaning for mild weather to prevent extreme heat or cold from worsening dehydration and respiratory vulnerability. Make sure adequate shade or shelter is ready in the weaning pens.
https://i3a.africa/
