The immune system is comprised of many complex biological structures and processes that work together to protect an organism from disease. In the newborn calf, the immune system is functional, but naïve and immature. Unlike most mammals, cattle do not transfer antibodies or immunoglobulins via the placenta. Instead they transfer it through the colostrum.

As the dairy industry embraces automation, there is a shift to move calves indoors rather than house them outside in hutches. When moving calves into calf rooms or barns, the first question should be whether calves will be housed in groups with automated feeders or in individual pens with traditional nipple bottles.