ABREU FILHO, Eduardo Rabelo De; SILVEIRA, Tássio Mauro Elias Da; FALEIRO, Mariana Batista Rodrigues
Abstract:
The rearing of dairy calves from birth to weaning is a critical stage for ensuring the productive efficiency and sustainability of dairy production systems. This study aimed to analyze, based on scientific literature and field observations, the main factors associated with morbidity and mortality in dairy calves, as well as management strategies to minimize these losses. The methodology consisted of a narrative literature review with an integrative approach, combined with observational analysis in a dairy production system, allowing the correlation between theoretical knowledge and practical application. The results demonstrated that calf losses during the pre-weaning period are primarily associated with failures in early-life management, especially inadequate passive immunity transfer, improper nutritional management, poor sanitary conditions, and suboptimal environmental factors. It was observed that practices such as effective colostrum management, monitoring of colostrum quality, proper feeding strategies, sanitary control, and adequate housing conditions are essential to reduce disease incidence and mortality rates. In conclusion, the adoption of integrated management strategies, combined with staff training and standardized protocols, is fundamental to improve calf health, development, and future productive performance.
