Calf scours is most often associated with infectious, environmental and nutritional stresses. A number of infections can cause viral and bacterial calf scours. The majority of scours, or diarrhea, cases occur when calves are 3 to 16 days old. Untreated calves essentially die of shock from a loss of fluids and electrolyte imbalances. Cattle producers need to be on the lookout for calf diarrhea. The key to successful treatment is identifying and successfully treating a dehydrated animal early. Its symptoms are — watery, yellow or green stools, reluctance to stand and suck, depression and drooling, dehydration, sunken appearance of eyes, hardening of skin, bloated stomach and intestines, etc.
Causes of diarrhea in calves
If we talk about the causes of diarrhea in calves, then this problem is mainly caused by infectious pathogens (rotavirus, coronavirus, cryptosporidium, E. coli, and salmonella). The main causes of diarrhea include viruses, bacteria, parasites, and nutritional factors. There may also be dietary problems such as — excessive amount of milk replacer, wrong temperature or concentration, feeding at irregular times, and lack of hygiene. There are also environmental factors that can be responsible for this, including overcrowding in pens, dirty environment, damp housing and poor hygiene.
Prevention Strategies
Diarrhea in calves can be a serious problem, but it can be controlled with proper management and treatment. To protect calf health, ensure newborns ingest adequate colostrum immediately after birth, using colostrum from cows in the same herd or replacement products when needed. Maintain proper cow nutrition and body condition, and reduce calves’ exposure to infectious agents through strict sanitation. Keep stocking density low by spreading calves out, and maintaining calving areas that are clean and dry. Isolate and quarantine any sick animals, and avoid commingling them with healthy calves. Do not introduce 1- to 5-day-old calves from neighboring herds or auction markets, and always sanitize equipment while avoiding visits to operations currently dealing with calf diarrhea issues. However, if a calf shows severe symptoms of diarrhea, it is important to consult a veterinarian immediately.
BADA BACHDA from Refit, a genuine friend to tired calves
Refit Animal Care has launched Bada Bachda powder which is very effective in curing diarrhea in calves (lambs) and kids. Since calves are the future of a livestock farmer’s livelihood, it is very important to maintain their health. It reduces the chances of diarrhea, effectively controls diarrhea, and restores electrolyte and fluid balance. Thus, it helps in faster recovery from digestive disorders and does not affect the immunity of the calf. Since diarrhea is directly related to the functioning of the intestine, Bada Bachda improves the health of the intestine. It reduces the risk of dehydration and weakness caused by it. It also reduces nutritional losses during illness and increases feed intake and overall productivity.
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