Weaning Calves Successfully

Clell V. Bagley DVM, Utah State University

Abstract

The production loss and death loss of calves at weaning is second only to the losses at calving. Weaning is a very stressful time and bovine respiratory disease (pneumonia, shipping fever, etc.) is a common problem. Coccidiosis and other digestive problems, such as acidosis, (grain overload) are also common. Producers often ask what vaccines they should use to help control health problems during this period. There are some vaccines which can be of help. But it is important to recognize that there are a number of other factors which must be controlled in order to have a successful weaning program. Vaccines should be viewed as an aid to herd health programs, not as the cure-all.