How/when to separate a calf??

RoyalValley · #1 03/18/11, 10:04 PM

The new cow I got had a month old calf with her. I am wanting to separate at night and milk in the morning. Right now I just go out and milk without separating.

Is she old enough to take her away from her mom and will she bawl all night if I keep them apart? I feel a little bad for keeping them apart, but I would like to get more milk. I know baby doesn't need everything she is making.

Thanks!!

sammyd · #2 03/19/11, 05:57 AM

they'll both probably make a lot of noise.

linn · #3 03/19/11, 08:24 AM

Be prepared for a couple of days of intense bawling and dramatics. Make sure you have a strong fence to contain both your cow and calf.

tinknal · #4 03/19/11, 10:43 AM

Are you talking about about weaning the calf, or just separating the pair at night?

RoyalValley · #5 03/19/11, 10:48 AM

Just separating at night, milk in the morning, they stay together all day then separate again.

tinknal · #6 03/19/11, 11:12 PM

It might be easiest to tie the calf overnight. I would get a calf halter and tie up right next to Mamma's pen. This would also accomplish getting her halter broke while it is still relatively easy.

RoyalValley · #7 03/19/11, 11:17 PM

I put mama in the pen, the baby is out with the other herd. They can still be nose to nose if they want. Mama cow was already in the pen eating so I grabbed the gate and locked her in. It will be more than 12 hours when I milk her, but maybe she will finally let down for me.