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 calf’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.