Putting weaned calves with other cows

[shadyhollownj]

I have a question about putting calves weaned about 3 months ago with other cows and heifers that just had there calves. Someone told me it shouldnt be a problem but I feel like they may try to nurse. Now none of the heifers or cows are their own moms. I just wanted to get a second opinion.

 

[novaman]

You could probably make it work but I don't like to take the chance. Once the heifer calves are weaned they won't go back with the main cow herd until after they wean their first calf themself. This is likely overkill but you also have to keep in mind that young, growing heifers need a higher plane of nutrition over mature cows.

 

[SRBeef]

I had similar concerns last spring. At about 10 weeks after weaning, in January I put the March-calving cows back in with the weaned heifer calves. I watched as I put them in. One heifer calf went over to her dam and tried to start nursing. The dry cow gave the calf a quick little kick with her rear leg and that was the end of that.

On the other hand, if your cows are already nursing new calves I think there might really be a problem and you might be inducing behavior which may be tough to break and persist through the herd.

I would not do it in your situation with cows that have calved already. jmho. Jim

 

[dun]

We turn the heifers back with the cow herd 6-8 weeks after weaning, never have had a problem. A couple of weeks ago we turned the weaned heifers in with 3 fall calvers with no problems. Since hten we have had on winter calf and still nothing going on. I was concerned this year because one of the heifers was an orphan that made a living till weaning by mostly nursing one cow but would sneak a meal from anyone that would let her. Even she hasn;t tried nursing.

 

[shadyhollownj]

Thanks for the posts. I am just a little short on pastures now since Im trying to redo some fencing. Trying to figure out where I can get everyone and still be ok. I can put the weaned calves in with the other cow, heifer, and their new calves in a small field near the house to keep an eye out. Just dont want to start any bad habits with 2 replacement heifers from the group. Thanks.