In early July, cow/calf pairs should have at least 90 days of grazing left. However, decreased forage production may shorten this to less than 60 days unless forage can be conserved. Consider early weaning calves as one way to decrease nutrient demands of the cow herd and extend grazing days. This article will help identify the steps to take before weaning these younger calves.
Age
Calves are commonly weaned between 200 and 250 days of age. Early weaning can be done between 100 and 200 days of age. Along with younger age weaned calves, lighter weights connected to the young calves make feeding plans change. Typically, facilities are designed for 400+ pound calves so adjusting bunk height, water access and ration ingredients will be key. For more information about feeding calf management, please refer to Managing Earlier Weaned Calves.
Rumen Development and Rations
A calf’s rumen is not considered fully functional until 12 weeks of age, or approximately 90 days of age. If early weaning, allowing a calf to reach closer to 120 days of age will allow adequate time for rumen development of calves to be able to consume forages and concentrates. For a more in depth look into calf rumen development, please refer to Considerations for Rumen Development in Weaned Calves.
Vaccinations
Normal weaning may include preconditioning vaccinations that prepare the immune system for additional stress. Depending on your branding or turn-out protocol, the normal preconditioning program may not be needed as there is still coverage from the previous round of vaccines. Visit with your herd veterinarian to ensure calves are covered for weaning stress and if your normal protocol needs to be changed based on younger age and lighter weight calves. For more reading, please refer to Vaccinating Early-Weaned Beef Calves.
Range Management
Hot and dry weather delays growth on more than just grass. With less than 50% normal grass production in many drought stressed areas in the state, conserving what forage resources are there for the mature cow herd is essential to decrease feed costs. Early weaning has shown to reduce grazing pressure by 36%, resulting in additional 30 days of grazing. For further information about how early weaning can benefit grazing resources, please refer to Combatting Drought Conditions with Early Weaning.
Economic Considerations
Weaning calves early can result in less amount of feed required to maintain cow nutrient requirements, which can help save on feed costs. Early weaning can also help cows maintain body condition, which plays a key role in reproductive success. For more information, please refer to Economic Considerations for Early Weaning.
Summary
Collectively, early weaning can be a stressful time, not only for the cow and calf, but for the beef cattle producer as well. Being well informed can better prepare producers and give them the confidence to carry out new strategies during adverse weather conditions. For more information, please contact one of our SDSU Extension beef cattle experts.
