Working calves born in the past few months is on the agenda for most operations in the coming months. When working calves, following BQA best management practices is not only the right thing to do, but it can also help the operation be more successful. Additionally, most best management practices related to working calves don’t cost anything and can increase their value at sale time.
Any male calves that will not be kept for use as breeding bulls should be castrated by the time they are 3 months old. The earlier calves are castrated, the better, as it results in less stress and research shows there are no advantages to delayed castration. Calves could be castrated at birth, but it is probably best to wait a day before castrating. Depending on size and logistics of the operation, castrating calves when they are only a couple of days old can work extremely well. Calves at this age can be caught and castrated by one person without the need for a calf table or multiple people to help. Additionally, there is generally very, very little bleeding that occurs when calves are castrated at this age.
Regardless, if calves are knife-cut or castrated using a band, it is critical to check that both testicles have descended into the scrotum before starting. Occasionally, one testicle remains in the abdominal cavity; these calves are referred to as cryptorchids. If this occurs, seek the assistance of a veterinarian to make sure both testicles are properly removed.
If the label allows, giving injections under the skin (subcutaneous) is desired over giving them in the muscle. The neck is the best location for subcutaneous injections. All intramuscular injections must be given in the neck.
Some vaccines require mixing. Only mix what vaccine will be used in an hour. Efficacy of these mixed modified-live vaccines can decrease over time after mixing. Whether using killed or modified-live vaccines, it is important to make sure they are stored properly prior to use and are also kept cool and out of the sun when working cattle.
At minimum, calves should receive a 7-way or 8-way clostridial vaccine when they are worked around 3 months old. Additional vaccines to help protect calves against viral respiratory and other pathogens may be beneficial. Work with a veterinarian or industry expert to identify appropriate vaccines for your operation.
