Most calf housing not up to standard, says animal health consultant

The majority of calf housing, both old and new, is not of sufficient standard, said animal health consultant Martin Kavanagh at the Teagasc National Beef Conference in October.

He said calves must have fresh air, no draught (low air speed), a dry environment, and be within the correct temperature range, to grow and maintain their immune system.

There is generally an imbalance in one or more of the four elements; not enough fresh air, too much draught, too wet and too cold, said Mr Kavanagh, consultant vet with Cow Solutions, Tipperary.