Changes in behaviour, milk production and bodyweight in beef cows subjected to two-step or abrupt weaning

Abstract

The objective was to compare the behavioural and productive response of cows to either abrupt or two-step weaning with nose flaps. Calves were fitted with nose flaps during the 14 days before separation from their dams (NF group); were abruptly and permanently separated (AW group), or remained as non-weaned controls (NW group). The behaviour of the cows was recorded before and after nose-flap insertion and permanent separation. Milk yield and composition were determined. After permanent separation, milk yield of NW cows was greater than that of NF and AW cows. AW cows paced and vocalised more than NF and NW cows, and NF cows more times than NW cows. The two-step weaning method with nose flaps was positive for the wellbeing of cows, as it reduced the main behavioural changes that indicate distress and decreased the bodyweight loss. Weaning, either in one or two steps, decreased milk yield 1 week after permanent separation.