We provide a critical summary of the literature on maternal behavior in cattle. The studies we review increase our basic understanding of this
behavior and provide insights into practical problems in cattle production. When domesticated cattle are permitted to rear their young, the
behaviors associated with maternal care are for the most part similar to those observed in wild ungulates. These behaviors allow the cow to bond
with her calf, protect and provide it with nourishment and ultimately break down this bond at weaning. Different commercial production systems
have emphasized different maternal behaviors, some being viewed as advantageous while others are considered a hindrance. Extensive production
systems (most beef cattle production) place the responsibility of rearing the newborn largely on the cow and risk factors that affect the maternal
bonding process (e.g. cross licking) remain important practical challenges. Most dairy cattle production discourages all aspects of maternal
behavior with the exception of milk production, but changing consumer demand (e.g. increases in organic production) will make an understanding
of maternal behavior in this system a priority in years to come.
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