What is the vaccination requirement for calves in California?

In California, the vaccination requirement for calves specifies that they must be vaccinated between the ages of 4 to 12 months. This guideline is important to ensure that calves develop adequate immunity to various diseases that can affect their health and productivity as they grow. Vaccinating within this time frame helps to protect them during a critical period of their development when they are more susceptible to infectious diseases.

The timing of vaccinations is crucial; vaccinating too early may not yield effective immune responses, as maternal antibodies can interfere with the calf’s ability to respond to the vaccine. Conversely, vaccinating too late may leave calves unprotected against pathogens that they may encounter.

Vaccination at this age can also align with other management practices, such as weaning and other health checks, allowing farmers to streamline their herd management and improve overall herd immunity. This practice contributes to better animal welfare and reduces the need for antibiotic treatments later on, aligning with broader goals of promoting public health and reducing antimicrobial resistance.

Thus, it is essential for farmers to adhere to this vaccination schedule to maintain a healthy herd and ensure the long-term viability of their cattle operations in California.