Effect of Maternity Pen Management on Morbidity and Mortality in Dairy Heifer Calves from Birth to 90 Days of Life

Authors

  • P. Pithua Veterinary Population Medicine Department, University of Minnesota, College of Veterinary Medicine, St. Paul, MN55108
  • S. J. Wells Veterinary Population Medicine Department, University of Minnesota, College of Veterinary Medicine, St. Paul, MN55108
  • S. M. Godden Veterinary Population Medicine Department, University of Minnesota, College of Veterinary Medicine, St. Paul, MN55108

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21423/aabppro20064749

Keywords:

maternity housing, preweaning period, morbidity, management, hygiene, maternity pens, calfhood diseases

Abstract

Risk factors for calf morbidity and mortality have been well characterized. Type of maternity housing and where calves are born have been shown to influence the likelihood of morbidity and mortality suffered by calves during the preweaning period. Proper management and hygiene of maternity pens may help reduce the frequency of early calfhood diseases in calves. The objective of this study was to determine whether heifer calves born in individual maternity pens will have a lower risk for experiencing calfhood diseases versus heifer calves born in a multiple cow maternity housing area.

Cover image of the 39th Conference Proceedings: Three calves lying down in a pasture next to a white fence. Behind them, a rainbow spans over the distant hills. Yellow background.

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Published

2006-09-21

Issue

2006

Section

Research Summaries 2