Bobby calf welfare

In 2016, we looked at reasons for mortality and morbidity in dairy calves (bobby calves) for slaughter and potential new welfare indicators. Results were based on observations of calves and information from questionnaires given to farmers, transport operators, and slaughter plant personnel. The research links calf mortality to on-farm management practices, transport, time in calving season, and slaughter schedules. This first study showed dehydration and diarrhoea to be common in bobby calves in lairage. The report includes a literature review as well as the study results.

Bobby calf welfare across the supply chain – first study [PDF, 2.1 MB]

This final report describes research to validate practical measures to assess dehydration in bobby calves. Results from data collected in 2018 are based on a study with healthy calves over a 24-hour period of food and water deprivation. The research showed that the tested measures (including a skin-pinch test, capillary refill, and core body temperature) can easily be performed by a single operator and may be of practical use in the industry to identify calves with mild-to-moderate dehydration. Food and water deprivation for up to 24 hours induced mild-to-moderate dehydration, but calves remained bright and alert with good sucking reflexes. Diarrhoea may have contributed significantly to the dehydration observed in the Year 1 study.

Bobby calf welfare across the supply chain – final report [PDF, 1 MB]

MPI required research to be carried out to determine the New Zealand national baseline and characteristics for carcass bruising of young calves and to investigate and trial rubber matting as an alternative for standard steel flooring surfaces in trucks and trailers. Young calves are particularly vulnerable to the stresses of being transported and while the mortality rate of young calves has been markedly reduced, factors affecting their welfare should be identified, measured, and where possible eliminated or reduced to acceptable levels. 

The welfare of young calves before, during and after transport is addressed in the Animal Welfare (Care and Procedures Regulations) 2018, Code of Welfare for Transport within New Zealand, Dairy Cattle Code of Welfare, and Commercial Slaughter Code of Welfare. However, the current Code of Welfare for Transport lacks detail and describes requirements in broad, subjective terms. 

Studies have indicated that standard steel flooring that is designed to prevent adult stock from slipping and to facilitate drainage during transport may not be appropriate for young calves. It may contribute to carcass bruising and may result in reduced lying time and increased fatigue, thus negatively impacting on the welfare of the calves.

Rubber matting has been suggested as a potential alternative to straw bedding. Its value to meet the requirements under the minimum flooring standard (Transport within New Zealand Code of Welfare) and to improve the welfare of young calves needs to be investigated and trialled. 

Young calf bruising and the effect of different floor surfaces during transport – Technical report [PDF, 2.3 MB]