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Description

Weaning from milk is a stressful phase for dairy calves affecting behaviors and growth. This study explored individual differences in feeding behaviors before weaning to predict calves’ grain intake and growth during and after gradual weaning. Specifically, we sought to predict average daily gain (ADG) and grain intake during and after weaning using measures of milk intake, grain intake, drinking speed, and visits to the grain feeder in the pre-weaning period. Group-housed Holstein heifers calves (n=92) were offered 12 L/d of milk and ad libitum grain using an automatic feeder from 8-51 days of age. Starting on day 52, milk allowance was reduced by 1.2L/d until reaching 6 L/d on day 57, and then reduced to 0 from day 72 to 77. Calves were weighed weekly until 97 days of age. Automated feeders recorded individual milk intake, drinking speed, grain intake, visits to the grain feeder. Calves with higher and more consistent milk intakes before weaning showed greater grain intakes later, and earlier grain consumption was associated with improved grain intakes and growth during and after weaning. Providing high milk allowances and early access to solid feed allows calves to express variability in feeding behaviors that may serve as indicators of weaning and post-weaning performance, creating opportunities for early intervention.