Scours can be caused by a wide range of viruses, bacteria, and other pathogens. While the exact culprits may vary, the results are typically the same.
Effective scours treatments address 3 main problems of the disease to prevent death:
When scours strike, fluids and nutrients are passing through the calves’ body too quickly for proper absorption into the blood. This rapid flow also strips their digestive system of the healthy microbes needed for proper digestion.
It is critical to continue regular milk or milk replacement feedings for calves afflicted with scours. If the calf is having difficulty standing, offer bottles. If they struggle with suckling, try esophageal feeders or even intravenous feedings with the assistance of your veterinarian. Make sure you follow manufacturer’s instructions on mixing ratios and storage temperatures. Get all hands on deck to keep those feedings coming!
For scours, calves will need more than just milk to correct the 3 problems listed earlier. They will need additional liquid supplements, along with continued milk feedings. According to Michigan State University Extension fluid therapy “corrects dehydration, restores normal acid-base balance, and replaces salts in the calf’s bodily fluids.” Ideally, fluid therapy treatments should contain:
Scours are extremely contagious and their range of harmful pathogens can be passed easily between calves, other animals, and humans alike. Even while you are treating calves for scours, they can be re-infected and infect others if they are in an unclean environment. Improve your biosecurity with the following steps:
Here are a few other tips that can help your animals divert all their energy towards healing.
Even after over 50 years, Redmond is always looking for new ways to support our hard working farmers. We are happy to offer a wonderful new product, Redmond First Month Immune Stimulator. First Month is an effective immune stimulator containing a nourishing blend of ingredients that are perfect for naturally treating scours:
Customers have found that First Month increases mineral and IgG (immunoglobulin) levels in the blood and reduces calf mortality rates; they already love the results they are seeing:
"I had been losing almost every calf within 3 days of life. My Redmond rep got me a small pouch of Redmond First Month. I started feeding it in the colostrum. My next 2 heifer calves are doing great. I will not raise calves without this product.” -Paul H. Pennsylvania
Give us a call today at 866-709-3192 so we can help you protect your next generation of calves!
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