Minimizing cows' stress when calves were early weaned using the two-step method with nose flaps

Area of Science:

• Animal Science
• Behavioral Science
• Livestock Management

Background:

• Early weaning in beef cattle aims to enhance reproductive efficiency under range conditions.
• Weaning, particularly early weaning, induces a significant stress response in cows due to the strong maternal-calf bond.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate if a two-step weaning process, utilizing anti-sucking devices (nose flaps), can reduce the behavioral stress response in cows undergoing early calf separation.
• To compare the stress indicators between abrupt weaning and a gradual, two-step weaning method.

Main Methods:

• Thirty-six multiparous beef cows and their calves were divided into three groups: abrupt weaning, two-step weaning (using nose flaps for 5 days prior to separation), and a control (no weaning).
• Behavioral frequencies (grazing, lying, pacing, walking, vocalizing) and weight changes in cows were monitored using direct visual sampling over a 14-day period.
• The study was conducted on crossbred Aberdeen Angus×Hereford cows and calves managed in three paddocks with consistent pasture availability.

Main Results:

• Cows subjected to two-step weaning exhibited significantly attenuated behavioral stress responses compared to abruptly weaned cows.
• Abruptly weaned cows showed increased pacing, walking, and vocalizing, alongside decreased grazing and lying times.
• The two-step weaning method effectively reduced stress indicators, confirming its efficacy even with strong cow-calf bonds.

Conclusions:

• Step weaning, facilitated by anti-sucking devices, is an effective strategy to mitigate the behavioral stress response in beef cows during early calf separation.
• This gradual weaning approach improves animal welfare by reducing stress markers associated with early maternal separation.
• The findings support the implementation of step weaning protocols in beef cattle production systems, especially when early weaning is necessary.