Characterization of neonatal beef calf behavior and associations with weight gain and intake of colostral immunoglobulins
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.21423/aabppro20163479Keywords:
colostrum intake, neonatal, morbidity, mortality, calves, beef, dairy, calf behaviorAbstract
Failure of adequate colostrum intake in neonatal calves contributes to increased morbidity and mortality in both beef and dairy calves. Characterizing neonatal calf behavior predictive of future production has not been fully explored in beef cattle. Research objectives included characterization of behavioral indices from birth until day 7 in beef calves born to primiparous (Calves-H) and multiparous dams (CalvesC). Evaluation of body weight, serum total protein, and IgG concentrations were performed to determine correlations between activity, transfer of passive immunity, and weight gain during the first 7 days of life.