What shots should a baby calf get?

Answer 1

If its mother didn't get the shots before he was born, yes. But, if the cow did get her shots when she was pregnant, he won't get his shots right after he's born. He will get them later on though, between 8 weeks and 6 months of age.

Answer 2

Not generally - most cow-calf operators have the skill to give neonatal vaccines to newborn calves themselves without having a veterinarian out to give the shots. This is more economical for the producer, and the calves get the vaccines they need.

Answer 3

You should give your calf vaccines that apply to your area. A shot of vitamin A, D, K, and Selenium (only if the area is Se-deficient), and other vitamins and minerals that may be needed. Later on, when the calf is around 8 to 16 weeks of age (or earlier if needed), a Blackleg or 8- or 9-way Clostridial vaccine should be administered. When the calves are around 6 months of age, a vaccination of IBR, BVD, PI3 and BRSV is also recommended. Killed vaccines should be given at pre-weaning. At or after weaning time, you can give them MLV (modified live virus) vaccines, though there are a few products of MLV vaccines that are approved for pre-weaned calves. Heifers should be given a Brucellosis (or Bang's Disease) vaccine when they are around 2 to 10 months old. Lepto (5-way) should only be given if your herd has a history of calves getting sick or lost from Lepto.

You should have vaccinated the cow prior to her giving birth so that you don't have to vaccinate the calf, as often it's cheaper and better to vaccinate the cow a few months before she gives birth.