How to save your calves from scours - dehydration alert

By Scout Nelson

The Kansas State University Beef Cattle Institute advises beef cattle producers on the essential steps to take when dealing with calves suffering from scours, a common yet potentially fatal condition. On a recent episode of the Cattle Chat podcast, experts emphasized the critical importance of keeping affected calves hydrated to combat severe dehydration that can lead to fatality.

Scours, which typically impact calves within their first 3-4 weeks, causes severe diarrhea leading to rapid dehydration. According to K-State veterinarian Brad White, "Scours most commonly affect calves in the first 3-4 weeks of life." This swift loss of fluids necessitates immediate intervention to save the calf's life. An affected calf can lose 5-10% of its body weight in a short period, highlighting the urgency of treatment.

Veterinarian Brian Lubbers pointed out that calves with moderate to severe diarrhea might not nurse adequately, exacerbating dehydration. "With dehydrated calves, their eyeballs will sink and there is a gap between the eyeball and the eyelid," Lubbers noted, describing a visible sign of dehydration.

To prevent this, Bob Larson, another K-State veterinarian, recommends keeping commercial electrolyte replacements ready for use. These can be administered orally or through an esophageal feeder, depending on the calf's condition.

For calves too weak to drink, IV fluids may be necessary, with subcutaneous or intra-abdominal fluids serving as intermediate steps. Collaboration with a local veterinarian is important to determining the most effective treatment approach.

Larson and Lubbers stress the importance of managing feeding times when administering electrolytes to avoid negative interactions with milk that could hinder recovery. Isolating sick calves and maintaining strict sanitation practices are also crucial to prevent the spread of the disease within the herd.

"This sickness has a fecal-oral transmission, so it is important those calves are in a clean environment," said Brad White, underscoring the need for cleanliness and proper sanitation to protect both the affected calves and the broader herd.

The guidance from Kansas State University Beef Cattle Institute underscores the need for proactive and informed care to ensure the health and survival of calves facing the challenge of scours.

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