calfthe

Calfthe is a term that refers to a young bovine animal, typically less than one year old. The word is derived from the Old English "céalf" and is related to similar words in other Germanic languages. Calves are born after a gestation period of approximately nine months and are dependent on their mother, the cow, for nourishment and protection during their early stages of life. They nurse on milk produced by the cow, which provides essential nutrients for their growth and development.

As calves mature, they begin to consume solid foods, such as grass and hay, transitioning to a herbivorous diet. The growth rate and development of a calf can vary depending on factors like breed, nutrition, and environmental conditions. In agricultural settings, calves are raised for various purposes, including meat production (veal or beef) and dairy production. Male calves are often castrated to manage their temperament and promote growth for beef production, while female calves may be kept for breeding to join the dairy herd. The term "calfthe" is universally understood within the context of cattle farming and livestock management.