Why are calves separated from the cow?

Separating a calf from the cow at birth helps to ensure that the calf is adequately nourished and protected against disease. Calves are moved to a clean, freshly bedded area shared with other calves. Here they can be fed the nutritious colostrum, which allows the farmer to ensure that the calves are adequately nourished in a more hygienic setting.

The udder of a dairy cow is often anatomically not suitable to feed correctly and many dairy cows have poor mothering ability. The practice also helps to prevent diseases such as Johne’s in the calf or mastitis in the cow.