Early Weaning Beef Calves
What about special health considerations? | What is the best bunk management? | What are the facility requirements? 

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Article from North Dakota State University
Feeding calves is cheaper than feeding the cows to maintain milk production plus it allows the cows to pick up condition before winter. Calves can be weaned as young as 100 days with no problems, provided they are fed a high quality feed.
You may consider the ration more expensive per ton than cow feed but with calf intake about eight pounds (3.5 kg) per day and gain about two pounds per day, it's low cost gain.
What about special health considerations?
The stress of early weaning directly influences the health and well being of the calf after weaning. Castration, dehorning and branding should be completed at least 10-14 days prior to weaning. Vaccinate calves prior to weaning with a seven-way clostridial injection, IBR-BVD vaccines, and other veterinarian recommended protection. If a "booster" or re-vaccination is required for any vaccine, it is essential that label recommendations are followed. To minimize product losses due to injection site blemishes, all vaccinations should be administered in the neck or shoulder region and not in the hind quarter. Protection from flies and parasites is also included in a good health program.
Injection of supplemental vitamin A, D and E is a relatively low-cost health aid that should be considered for early-weaned calves. Commercial growth implants generally enhance calf weight gain, especially for calves not kept for breeding purposes. Calves should always have access to clean water and a complete mineral package should be offered in loose form.
Monitor calves regularly for signs of respiratory problems, digestive disturbances, scours, coccidiosis and sorting of feed.