Transitioning newly arrived calves into the feedlot can be one of the most critical phases in the feeding cycle. These young animals face a series of stressors all at once—transportation, unfamiliar environments, dietary shifts, exposure to pathogens, and changes in social structure. If not managed well, this period can result in significant health issues that impact both animal welfare and profitability.
By prioritizing biosecurity and sound management from the start, producers can reduce the risk of disease, improve calf performance, and support a more successful feeding period.
A Strong Start Begins with Smart Sourcing
One of the best ways to support immunity in incoming cattle is to bring in pre-conditioned calves. These animals have typically been vaccinated, are used to bunk feeding, and are familiar with waterers. Their prior exposure to structured feeding systems gives them a head start in adapting to their new surroundings.
Producers should also aim to:
-
Fill pens within a week to help calves establish stable social groups.
-
Avoid adding animals to established pens, which can disrupt herd dynamics and reduce collective immunity.
-
Source animals of similar size and age to allow for consistent feeding, health treatment, and management.
Tailoring Health and Nutrition Protocols
Work closely with a veterinarian to develop receiving protocols based on the background and condition of the cattle. This includes vaccination schedules, preventive treatments, and decisions around metaphylaxis. A well-established veterinary relationship allows for more targeted and timely responses to health challenges.
Nutrition is equally important. Calves must receive a balanced receiving ration that supports immune function. Inadequate nutrition can suppress immune response and slow recovery if illness occurs. Nutritional plans should be tailored to weight, condition, and age—and adjusted as needed.
Additional best practices include:
-
Purchasing heavier calves when possible, as they often show lower rates of illness and death loss.
-
Weighing cattle on arrival to ensure accurate dosing of health treatments and to better manage close-out data.
-
Ensuring ample bunk space (18–24 inches per animal) and clean hay and water to encourage feed intake.
-
Providing clean, dry resting areas to reduce stress and promote better health outcomes.
Low-Stress Handling and Early Illness Detection
The way cattle are handled can have a direct impact on their stress levels and health outcomes. Using low-stress handling techniques and allowing time for animals to acclimate to their caregivers builds trust, making it easier to spot signs of illness early on.
Other considerations:
-
Minimize unnecessary movement between pens, especially for sick animals.
-
When possible, treat calves in their home pens to avoid the added stress of being relocated.
-
Always handle sick animals last to reduce the risk of spreading pathogens to healthy cattle.
Separating new arrivals from existing herds for a minimum of 21 days is essential. Avoid shared fence lines and waterers during this period, and use solid barriers or designated isolation areas to reduce contact.
Reducing Disease Risk Through Traffic Management
Controlling movement within the operation can limit the spread of disease. Feed delivery trucks, service providers, and equipment all pose a potential risk of bringing in or spreading harmful pathogens.
Implement the following traffic control measures:
-
Designate separate routes and areas for deliveries, visitors, and internal staff to prevent cross-contamination.
-
Limit visitor access to animal areas and feed preparation zones.
-
Install clear signage for entry, exit, and parking to guide traffic flow efficiently.
-
Keep logbooks to track visitors and the purpose of their visit.
-
Require all personnel and visitors to sanitize or cover their footwear before entering high-risk areas, and maintain boot wash stations to prevent pathogen spread between pens.
Cleanliness Is Key
Routine cleaning and proper maintenance of pens and equipment help maintain a healthy environment while improving equipment longevity and operational safety.
Some key steps include:
-
Use different tools for manure and feed handling, and store them separately.
-
Clean water tanks and small tools with soap and water, and rinse thoroughly.
-
Keep pens clean and bedded to minimize mud and manure accumulation. Aim to keep buildup below ankle depth to reduce hide contamination.
-
Clean out pens between groups when possible, allowing them to rest for 7–10 days to help break disease cycles.
-
Routinely clean processing equipment and handling facilities, especially between animal groups.
Where power washing is used, ensure proper drainage and ventilation, and wear protective gear to avoid exposure to airborne contaminants.
Controlling Pests That Spread Disease
Pests such as rodents, birds, and wildlife can be more than a nuisance—they can also spread disease and steal feed. Effective pest control not only protects animal health but also reduces unnecessary feed loss.
Strategies include:
-
Keeping feed storage areas clean and free of spillage.
-
Removing waste feed promptly from under bunks and along alleys.
-
Reducing wildlife shelter opportunities by mowing surrounding areas and using gravel or concrete near feed and water sources.
-
Using pesticides according to label directions, and working with licensed applicators if necessary.
-
Seeking assistance from wildlife control professionals for persistent or large-scale problems.
The Bottom Line
Calves arriving at the feedlot are at a vulnerable stage, and the first few weeks are crucial to their long-term success. By focusing on immunity-building strategies, practicing low-stress handling, implementing rigorous biosecurity protocols, and keeping facilities clean and pest-free, producers can improve health outcomes and maximize returns.
The investment in these practices pays off in reduced illness, better performance, and a smoother path to market-ready cattle.
