The environment that the calf is reared in is a significant factor contributing to the calves welfare, health and performance. In North America, it’s common practice to isolate neonatal calves within 24 hours from the mother and place them in individual housing. Here we will discuss the history of dairy calf housing, the calves first housing environment, welfare implications of isolation from the dam and individual housing, alternatives to individual housing system and their advantages and disadvantages, as well as ways we can improve housing for dairy calves.
