Neonatal Calf Management

Abstract

Perinatal and neonatal calf mortality account for the second greatest loss to the beef cattle industry; the first being open or late calving cows. Large surveys have shown perinatal deaths to range from 4 to 7 percent and neonatal deaths to range from 2 to 6 percent. 18 27 Certain herds and areas have mortality rates much higher in epizootic situations. The purpose of this presentation is to discuss some of the causes of such losses and management practices to reduce the losses. The following procedures should increase perinatal and neonatal survival:
I. Have heifers big at calving
2. Breed heifers to sires selected for 'easy calving'.
3. Provide proper prepartum nutrition.
4. Hyperimmunize dams when indicated.
5. Provide adequate and clean calving facilities.
6. Provide proper surveillance and early assistance at calving.
7. Insure adequate and timely colostrum consumption.