Raising Poddy Calves
Best Practice Tips for Healthy, Productive Cattle
Hand-rearing poddy calves can be a rewarding experience — but it also comes with responsibility. Whether you’ve taken on an orphaned calf or are supporting one whose mother can’t feed, applying the right management practices will make all the difference in their health, growth, and future productivity.
In this video, Matt Brown shares valuable, practical advice based on his work with the Department of Primary Industries (DPI) to demonstrate best practice methods for raising poddy calves. The aim? To give producers the knowledge and confidence to raise healthy, thriving calves to weaning age.
Two Main Options for Poddy Calves
1. Hand-Raising
Use a teat or bucket feeder to provide milk replacer or fresh cow’s milk at the correct temperature (37–39°C).
Feed at consistent times each day to reduce stress and digestive upsets.
Maintain strict hygiene with all feeding equipment to prevent the spread of disease.
Introduce calf pellets and good-quality hay early to encourage rumen development.
2. Finding a Foster Cow
When possible, pairing an orphan calf with a foster cow can save time, labour, and feed costs.
Success depends on the cow’s willingness to accept the calf — using scent transfer (rubbing afterbirth or milk on the calf) can help.
Monitor closely to ensure the calf is being allowed to feed and is gaining weight.
Shelter, Comfort, and Health Checks
Provide protection from wind, rain, and extreme heat.
Keep bedding dry to reduce the risk of illness.
Watch for signs of scours, coughing, nasal discharge, or reduced appetite — early intervention is key.
The Big Picture
Whether you choose to hand-rear or use a foster cow, the goal is the same: raise a healthy calf that will grow into a productive animal. By prioritising nutrition, hygiene, shelter, and regular monitoring, you set your calves — and your herd — up for long-term success.
Healthy calves = productive cattle. ✅
Kind Regards,
Matt Brown
Link to Matt’s Youtube on how to:
https://www.bing.com/videos/riverview/relatedvideo?q=futurebeef+how+to+raise+poddy+calves&&mid=F31B1CAAC7846FAD2CA8F31B1CAAC7846FAD2CA8&FORM=VAMGZC
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this article is true and correct to the best of my knowledge at the time of publication. It is intended for general guidance and informational purposes only. Readers are encouraged to verify any information and seek independent advice relevant to their individual circumstances, particularly where legal, financial, or regulatory compliance matters are concerned.