Calves are weaned to help them:

Weaning calves is a critical step in their development, and the primary purpose of this process is to help them adjust to the next phase of their lifecycle quickly. During weaning, calves transition from a diet that primarily consists of their mother’s milk to one that includes solid feed. This shift is essential for their growth and development as it prepares them for life independent of their mother and supports their transition to the diets they will consume as they grow, whether in a feedlot or pasture setting.

This adjustment is important because it helps to reduce stress and potential health issues that can occur if the transition is not managed properly. By focusing on this adjustment period, producers can ensure that the calves are more resilient and better prepared for the demands of their new diet and environment. While weight gain, coat condition, and market value are all important aspects of cattle management, the weaning process fundamentally centers around facilitating a smooth transition to the next developmental stage in the calves' lives.