Immunology of the "Early Weaned" Beef Calf

Abstract

Early-weaning of beef calves is a management system that is gaining popularity. Numerous recent studies have documented the potential economic benefits of early weaning that can be measured in increased weight gain and feed efficiency in calves, and body scores and reproductive rates in cows. The bovine immune system is competent at bith; however, maturation changes occur from birth to puberty. The effect of early weaning on this maturational process is poorly understood at present. Exposure to endemic microbes during this period may also have a priming effect on the immune system that may be altered in early weaned calves.