Diarrhea 

Diarrhea is a debilitating condition that causes significant discomfort and stunted growth in calves, and in severe cases, it can even be fatal. The dehydration resulting from diarrhea greatly impacts a calf’s well-being. Therefore, preventing diarrhea is crucial and serves as the cornerstone for the hassle-free rearing of healthy, successful dairy cows.

Diarrhea

Diarrhea, a common problem

Diarrhea in calves can stem from disrupted protein or fat digestion (nutritional diarrhea) or from infections (infectious diarrhea). Recognizing the difference between these types allows for prompt and effective responses to diarrhea issues.

Infectious diarrhea can be caused by bacteria (such as E. coli and Salmonella), viruses (like rota and corona), or parasites (including cryptosporidia and coccidia). Rota and corona infections, often occurring within the first month of life, can lead to parasitic disorders such as cryptosporidiosis.

It’s crucial to treat a calf with diarrhea promptly. Each affected calf requires extra fluids and sufficient energy. Ensuring that housing and bedding are dry, clean, and warm is also essential. Consult with your vet to identify the causative agent and determine the best treatment plan.

Watch the video of Ger van Wersch, previous young stock specialist for Kalvolac, explaining which steps to take in case a calf has diarrhea. In addition he also shares some practical tips how to prevent diarrhea in calves.

Did you know that,

  • A 40 kg calf needs 6 litres of fluid intake a day?
  • It is of vital importance to offer fresh water to a calf in a drinking tray, from day 2?
  • A calf with diarrhea can lose more than 5 litres of fluids?
  • Damage to the intestinal wall from diarrhea means that fewer nutrients can be taken up?
  • Colostrum plays a key role in tackling diarrhea?
  • Nutrifizz®supports recovering after diarrhea?
  • If diarrhea regularly recurs on your farm you can request our Diarrhea protocol?

Interested in the Diarrhea protocol?

Request the protocol

A well-arranged PDF containing a clear action plan for preventing infectious and non-infectious diarrhea.

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Knowledge about diarrhea for you.

All knowledge

One day of diarrhoea means four days of growth loss

The first colostrum: plenty, quickly, often, fresh and supplemented in case of emergency

Calf hygiene and diarrhea prevention

Help my calf has diarrhea! Ger van Wersch, youngstock specialist for Kalvolac, knows what to do.

Diarrhea: a common problem, but there are plenty of solutions

Higher growth rates in the calves and less diarrhea