When are calves typically weaned?

Calves are typically weaned between 6 to 8 months of age. This timeframe aligns with the developmental milestones of the calf, allowing them to gradually shift from a milk-based diet to solid feed. Weaning too early can hinder their growth and health, and weaning too late may not be as beneficial for the dairy or beef production system.

Calves benefit from staying with their dams until they are mature enough to consume solid feed efficiently, usually after 6 months when they can adequately digest forages and grains. Producers often choose to wean calves at this age to ensure optimal health, growth rates, and to manage lactation in the dam effectively.

The other options suggest weaning calves at either an earlier or later age, which typically falls outside the recommended practices in cattle management. Weaning at younger than 6 months may not provide the calf with enough solid nutrition, while waiting until 10 to 12 months could interfere with the reproductive cycle of the mother and delay future breeding.