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Effective Treatment for Sick Calves

Feb 28, 2025

Treatment of Sick Calves

Authors

  • V. Michael Lane, D.V.M., M.S.
  • Marie S. Bulgin, D.V.M
  • Bruce C. Anderson, D.V.M., Ph.D.
  • Caine Veterinary Teaching and Research Center, University of Idaho

Key Concepts

Importance of Oral Fluid Therapy

  • Primary treatment for calves with simple diarrhea.
  • Simple diarrhea: Excessive fluid and electrolyte loss from intestines without external destructive disease.
  • Oral electrolyte products in appropriate quantities can replace lost fluids and prevent dehydration.
  • Not all scouring calves require treatment; active and eating calves usually do not need it.

Treatment Protocols

  • Remove sick calves and dams from the herd, place them in sick pens.
  • Signs of weakness, depression, or sunken eyes should prompt vigorous treatment.
  • Severe cases may require intravenous electrolyte treatment.
  • Commercial electrolyte solutions are preferred over homemade varieties.

Recommended Electrolytes

  • Lifeguard HE
  • Biolyte
  • Calf Quencher
  • Revive
  • Survive
  • Administer via esophageal feeder if not bottle-feeding.
  • Mix electrolytes with warm water; do not mix with milk or milk replacer.
  • Avoid adding salt, sodium bicarbonate, or sugar.

Intravenous Fluid Therapy

  • Necessary for calves too weak to stand.
  • Cost-effective to have a veterinarian handle intravenous rehydration.
  • Early oral therapy can prevent the need for IV fluids.
  • Recognize life-threatening situations early to save the calf.

Antibiotics Use

  • Designed to inhibit or kill bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli.
  • Some E. coli scours in early life can be prevented by vaccinating dams pre-calving.
  • Ineffectiveness of antibiotics against viral/protozoal causes; focus on supportive care.

Early Scours Management

  • If outbreaks occur, newborns might need oral antibiotics post-birth.
  • Some commonly used antibiotics may not work due to resistance.

Supportive Care

  • Gut protectives (e.g., Pepto Bismol) thought to reduce discomfort.
  • Drugs slowing intestinal movement (e.g., atropine) are not recommended.
  • Maintain calves in a warm, dry environment with adequate shelter.

Monitoring and Adjusting Treatment

  • Focus on calf attitude and activity rather than fecal consistency for therapy adjustments.
  • Monitor calfโ€™s recovery and consult a veterinarian if complications arise.

Summary

  • With proper preventive medicine, scours are usually limited to the second week of life.
  • Right type of oral fluids is crucial for treatment protocol.
  • Isolate sick calves, ensure good shelter, water, and salt are available.
  • Provide electrolytes and milk appropriately.
  • Immediate veterinary assistance for calves unable to stand.
  • Discontinue or reduce oral treatment as calf improves.
  • Keep sick calves comfortable with dry bedding and necessary warmth.
  • Consult veterinarians for any arising questions or complications.