August 12, 2019

Early separation of cow and calf has long-term effects on social behavior

Calves of dairy cows are generally separated from their mothers within the first 24 hours after birth. The majority of the milk thus enters the food market and not the stomachs of the calves. However, growing up without a mother has consequences. Scientists have studied the long-term effects of early maternal deprivation. This study shows that calves which have contact to their mothers or to other cows during rearing become more sociable adults.

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/04/150428081801.htm