Cold stress in calves

Cold stress in calves refers to the adverse effects that low ambient temperatures can have on the health and well-being of young calves. Calves are particularly vulnerable to cold stress because they cannot regulate their body temperature, especially during the first few weeks of life.

The weather is getting colder, and you don’t want your calves to experience cold stress. Calves are born with a limited body fat reserve, usually only enough for one day. At six weeks of age, calves still have less than 4% body fat. Mainly when diarrhoea occurs, food intake decreases, which worsens the condition. The lowest critical temperature of calves is 15ºc, so keeping them warm, growing, and staying healthy is essential.

Cold stress in newborn calves significantly reduces the absorption rate of immunoglobulins up to 15 hours after the first feeding of colostrum, making them more susceptible to certain diseases. Also, using energy to maintain temperature instead of growing results in lower growth rates. Using energy to keep warm can also suppress their immune systems and expose animals to a higher risk of disease.

Ways to reduce the risk of cold stress in calves

• Providing a clean, dry, and draft-free environment for calves, with adequate bedding to insulate them from the cold ground.
• Using calf jackets or coats to provide additional insulation during freezing weather.
• Offering warm water to encourage adequate hydration.
• Feeding colostrum and high-quality milk or milk replacers to support their nutritional needs and provide energy for maintaining body temperature.
• Ensuring proper ventilation in housing facilities to maintain fresh air without causing drafts.
• Monitoring calves closely for signs of cold stress and promptly providing necessary care and treatment.

Once the calf has been warmed, provide colostrum and maintain body temperature. Colostrum is a concentrated source of protein, vitamins, minerals and energy and contains antibodies to diseases or vaccines the dam has been exposed to. Commercial colostrum replacement products are available if the calf is unwilling to suck and it is impossible to milk the dam. Calves should be fed colostrum as soon as possible after the suckle reflex has returned, generally within the first 6 hours after birth but ideally within 1-2 hours after birth. Once the calf is warm and fed, move it back to its mother.

It is essential to have a plan for young calves when the temperature drops, so taking action helps keep calves warm, support growth and promote calf health. Keeping calves warm, dry and healthy will ensure they perform at their best. After all, this is the most crucial stage of life, and you want to give them the best possible start.