Approximately 50 per cent of calf deaths are due to poor hygiene. A deep clean annually, or after a period of poor health and performance, is an essential part of the hygiene routine

● Calf housing must be dry, clean, free from draughts and easy to clean. Good hygiene must be practiced to maximize calf performance

● Ensure there is a separate, cleanable area for milk preparation and that any moisture from washing or cleaning of equipment is well away from calf pens

● Sick animals present a health risk to all others in the group and good management practices for sick animals should be in place, e.g. use of sick pens

● Control of moisture through ventilation and drainage is essential, as dampness has a negative impact on calf performance

● Cut channels in the concrete and form 75–100mm gutters away from target area if drainage is not competent

● Providing constant fresh air through ventilation is essential in preventing respiratory diseases. Ensure the airspeed is no more than 0.5 meters per second, which would cause draughts

● During cold weather, maintain growth rates by ensuring there is plenty of dry and clean bedding, altering milk intake, and consider the use of calf jackets, heaters or blankets

● During warm weather, maintain growth rates by ensuring there is shade and cold water available, altering milk intake to provide extra energy, and consider reducing the stocking rate

● Calves should always have access to fresh, clean water which helps to increase starter intake and develop the rumen

● From eight weeks of age, calves must be group housed as this is associated with improved social development and growth rates

●Calf hutches provide an alternative housing option as, although more labour intensive, they have a lower initial investment cost

● Hutches should not be in hot, windy or wet locations and care should be taken to ensure they provide adequate ventilation, drainage and space