Document type: scientific abstract available prior to publication in Annals of Animal Science, National Research Institute of Animal Production
Authors: Robert Kupczyński, Katarzyna Pacyga, Krzysztof Adamczyk, Anna Budny-Walczak, Wojciech Pisula
Abstract in French (translation): Understanding Abnormal Behaviors in Dairy Calves—A Narrative Review
This article summarizes a body of findings regarding what are known as “abnormal behaviors” in dairy calves. Accurate identification of normal and abnormal behaviors in these calves is essential for assessing their well-being in various production systems. Behaviors that appear typical, such as grooming, tongue play, or non-nutritive chewing, may, under certain rearing conditions, reflect an underlying motivational conflict or frustration. Insufficient milk rations and poorly designed diets remain the primary factors causing these abnormal and stereotyped behaviors, indicating compromised well-being and suboptimal environmental conditions. These behavioral responses often reflect adaptations to restrictions in environmental complexity, feeding opportunities, or social interaction. Empirical data highlight that improvements in milk feeding management, environmental enrichment, and access to social contact significantly reduce the frequency of stereotypies and promote behavioral and physiological well-being. Integrating evidence-based nutritional strategies into enriched housing environments is an effective way to improve calf welfare while promoting sustainable productivity in modern dairy systems. Future research should continue to refine feeding strategies and improve housing conditions to promote a more animal-centered production system.
Preview:
This paper synthesises a range of findings on so-called abnormal behaviour in dairy calves. Accurate identification of normal and abnormal behaviours in dairy calves is essential for assessing welfare across diverse production systems. Behaviours that appear typical, such as grooming, tongue playing or non-nutritive chewing, may, under certain management conditions, reflect underlying motivational conflict or frustration. Inadequate milk allowances and poorly designed feeding regimes remain primary drivers of such abnormal and stereotypic behaviours, indicating compromised welfare and suboptimal environmental conditions. These behavioural responses often reflect adaptations to restrictions in environmental complexity, feeding opportunities or social interaction. Empirical evidence highlights that improvements in milk-feeding management, environmental enrichment and access to social contact markedly reduce the occurrence of stereotypies and promote behavioural and physiological well-being. Integrating evidence-based nutritional strategies with enriched husbandry environments provides an effective means of improving calf welfare while supporting sustainable productivity in modern dairy systems. Future research should continue to refine feeding strategies and enhance housing conditions to promote a more animal-oriented production system.
