How to Care for a Newborn Calf

Bringing a calf into the world is one of the most rewarding parts of farming—but it's also one of the most delicate. Knowing how to care for a newborn calf in those first few hours and weeks can make all the difference to its long-term health, growth, and productivity. From colostrum to housing, here's what you need to know to give your calves the best possible start.

Newborn calf care starts the moment the calf hits the ground. The priority is making sure the calf is breathing. If it's not, clear any mucus from the mouth and nose and vigorously rub the calf with a clean, dry towel to stimulate circulation and respiration.

Once breathing is steady, move on to navel care. Dip the navel in iodine or a suitable antiseptic solution to help prevent infection. Umbilical infections are a common issue and can escalate quickly if ignored.

Temperature is another critical factor. Calves are especially vulnerable to cold stress in the first 24 hours. Dry them thoroughly and provide a warm, draft-free environment—calf jackets can significantly help in colder months.

Feeding is the cornerstone of healthy calf development. The importance of colostrum for calves can't be overstated—it provides essential antibodies to protect against early calf diseases, and prevention relies heavily on this immunity boost. Aim to feed high-quality colostrum (at least 3–4 litres) within the first two hours of life. The best colostrum for calves is from the dam, but tested frozen or powdered alternatives are excellent backup options.

After the first 24 hours, you'll transition to calf milk replacers. Choose a replacer with high energy and protein content formulated for easy digestion. Consistency is key—stick to a reliable newborn calf feeding schedule, offering two feeds daily at regular intervals and always mixing the milk at the correct temperature.

Ensure fresh, clean water is available from day one. Contrary to popular belief, water doesn't replace milk—it supports digestion and encourages dry feed intake.

Where your calf lives can directly influence its health. Good calf housing is warm, dry, and well-ventilated, with clean bedding changed regularly. Avoid overcrowding, which increases the risk of airborne infections and stress-related illness.

Ventilation matters, but so does avoiding draughts. Position pens so airflow doesn't blow directly onto calves. Individual pens can help reduce the spread of disease, particularly in the first few weeks when immunity is still developing.

Hygiene is your best defence. Keep feeding equipment clean and disinfect housing regularly. To prevent scours in calves, start with good colostrum management, clean bedding, and safe feeding practices. Scours can be deadly if not treated quickly, so always keep oral rehydration products on hand and act at the first sign of loose stools. We stock a full range of cleaning products, calf pens, and disinfectants both in-store and online—just ask if you're unsure which options best suit your setup.

Once you've mastered the basics, your focus shifts to growth and resilience. Introduce dry feed, such as starter pellets, within the first week to encourage rumen development. Maintain clean water access and monitor weight gain regularly.

Vaccination and deworming are key parts of long-term calf care. Your vet can advise on schedules based on local risks and farm-specific challenges. Also, grouping calves by age should be considered to reduce competition and simplify feeding and monitoring.

Watch out for signs of illness, such as a dull coat, coughing, or changes in behaviour. Early intervention keeps recovery time short and minimises spread across your herd.

Whether you're a first-time smallholder or an experienced dairy farmer, understanding how to care for a newborn calf sets your calves up for lifelong success. At Mole Avon, we're proud to support the farming community with expert advice and trusted calving and calf care products—from calf milk replacers to housing equipment and supplements. Visit us in-store or online to find everything you need to raise healthy, happy calves. Contact us for more information now.