Incorporating enrichment for calves through interactive novel objects, substrates they can manipulate or by introducing social partners for calves that are individually housed may greatly improve their welfare. Research has shown that pair housing of calves is economically viable for farmers and will give benefits of social contact and opportunity for play, similarly to group housing. However, it is important that a variety of enrichment is available in order to reduce cross-suckling behavior which may occur when milk is restricted and there’s no way to express innate suckling behavior. Objects such as brushes and hanging manila ropes have been used as a form of sensory and occupational enrichment for calves. In one recent study of calves housed in pairs, the brush and rope were both used by calves for 30 min per item per day. The rope is an inexpensive and easy to install enrichment device that can be added to the housing environment, however, a brush should also be offered or other forms of enrichment so calves are able to express their preferences.
Here is a video of a calf enjoying a brush.
Even a simple attached brush will get used as seen in this video.