Abstract
Sixty Holstein calves were randomly allotted to two housing systems (inside and outside) and three weaning ages (3, 5, and 7 weeks) within each housing system. Individual outdoor calf hutches and individual pens in an insulated heated barn were utilized for the initial 14 weeks. At 14 weeks of age all calves were group housed in outdoor sheds and remained there until 26 weeks old. Average daily gains were not significantly different (P>.05) between weaning ages or housing systems. Calves weaned at 3 weeks consumed significantly more starter (P<.01) than calves weaned at 5 or 7 weeks. Hay consumption was not affected (P>.05) by housing systems or weaning ages. Housing systems had no effect (P>.05) on the incidence of scours or pneumonia, but the incidence of scours was higher (P<.01) in the group weaned at 7 weeks. Outdoor hutches require less labor and bedding. Calves weaned at 3 weeks can be reared in an outdoor housing system and have growth rates comparable to later-weaned calves housed indoors in a heated barn.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
