By Andi Anderson
Calf scours, also called diarrhea in young calves, is one of the most common health problems on farms. It is also one of the leading causes of sickness and death in newborn calves.
Several pathogens can cause scours, including bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Other challenges like poor sanitation, weak immunity, stress, and cold weather can make the condition even worse.
No matter the cause, scours leads to rapid loss of water and electrolytes. This makes calves dehydrated, weak, and unable to digest milk properly.
Oral electrolyte solutions are one of the most effective treatments for calves with scours. These fluids help replace the water and minerals calves lose through diarrhea.
They also help correct metabolic acidosis, which occurs when the calf’s blood becomes too acidic. When given early, oral electrolytes can prevent a calf from becoming too weak to stand or nurse.
One of the biggest mistakes farmers make is waiting too long to give electrolyte treatments. Calves that are still standing and have a strong or weak suckle reflex are good candidates for oral fluids.
Once a calf cannot stand or suck, intravenous fluids from a veterinarian are needed. Farmers can check dehydration by looking at sunken eyes, dry gums, and how fast the skin returns to normal after being gently pinched.
Choosing the right electrolyte product is also important. A good solution should contain 60 to 80 mEq of an alkalinizing agent such as bicarbonate, acetate, or propionate.
These ingredients help correct acidosis. The product should also contain enough sodium to restore hydration effectively.
Other important care steps include continuing to feed milk, providing warm bedding, and protecting calves from cold and stress.
Milk should never be withheld from a scouring calf because electrolytes do not provide enough energy or protein. Electrolytes should be given in addition to regular milk feeding.
New diagnostic tests, such as the Calf Diarrhea Multiplex PCR panel, can help identify the cause of scours quickly. Fast diagnosis allows farmers and veterinarians to choose the best treatment plan.
Early treatment and proper electrolyte use can save the lives of many young calves and support stronger herd health.
Some FAQs-
1. What causes diarrhea (scours) in newborn calves?
Scours in calves less than 21 days old can be caused by five major infectious agents:
- Bacterial: E. coli K99 and Salmonella
- Viral: Rotavirus and Coronavirus
- Parasitic: Cryptosporidium parvum
Poor colostrum intake, cold weather, stress, and poor sanitation can also worsen the condition.
2. When should oral electrolyte solutions be given to scouring calves?
Oral electrolytes should be given early and frequently, especially when the calf can still stand and has a suckle reflex or chewing motion. Waiting too long or giving too little allows dehydration and acidosis to worsen. If the calf is down or too weak to suck, IV fluids from a veterinarian are required.
3. Should milk be withheld from calves with scours?
No. Milk or milk replacer should NOT be withheld. Research shows milk does not worsen diarrhea and is essential for maintaining energy and blood glucose. Calves should receive their normal milk feed plus electrolytes.
Photo Credit: istock-simplycreativephotography
Categories: Ohio, Livestock