A Systematic Review on Management Practices Affecting Welfare in Male Calves: A Five Domains Model Approach

Abstract

Veal calf welfare is of critical concern, as various management practices can contribute significantly to negative effects on health and welfare outcomes. The present review aimed to systematically collect and analyze the available evidence regarding the management strategies affecting the well-being of male calves worldwide, according to the five domains model. A systematic search was conducted for studies published until March 31, 2023, in five electronic databases (i.e., OVID®/MEDLINE, PubMed®, SciELO, Redalyc, Web of Science™). Only articles published in peer-reviewed journals were considered, and inclusion and exclusion criteria were established a priori and maintained throughout the systematic process. Thirty-six articles underwent the final inclusion criteria. All were published in English, in 15 journals, and between 1997 and 2023. The relevant articles reported management practices according to each of the five domains. Management strategies with a negative effect on calf welfare included inadequate feeding of high-optimal colostrum within a few hours of birth, lack of a colostrum management program, dehorning/castration without local anesthesia or analgesia, and long transportation of <14-day-old calves. Opportunities to improve male calf welfare included management practices such as ad libitum feeding, early provision of solid feed, socially grouped housing, adequate hutch space, and pain management during routine productive procedures. None of the studies were directly related to domain 5 (mental status). In general, there has been an increase in the number of studies on male calf welfare over time. Several management strategies can be considered or improved around new policies and management programs in male calf populations in consideration of the five domain approach.