CLARA SnapSHOT:  Calf Scours

Calf scours, or neonatal diarrhea, is one of the most common and costly diseases affecting young calves, particularly within the first few weeks of life...

Rob Cook
 |  RobCookKC@gmail.com

Photo:  UNL Beef

Snapshot: Calf Scours 

Calf scours, or neonatal diarrhea, is one of the most common and costly diseases affecting young calves, particularly within the first few weeks of life. It is caused by a variety of pathogens, including bacteria (E. coli, Salmonella), viruses (Rotavirus, Coronavirus), and protozoa (Cryptosporidium, Coccidia), often exacerbated by poor colostrum intake, environmental stress, and inadequate sanitation. Symptoms typically include watery diarrhea, dehydration, weakness, and in severe cases, death if not treated promptly. Scours significantly impact growth rates and overall herd health, making prevention and early intervention critical.

Managing calf scours requires a combination of prevention, early detection, and supportive care. Ensuring newborn calves receive high-quality colostrum within the first few hours of life boosts immunity and reduces disease susceptibility. Proper hygiene, dry bedding, and limiting overcrowding help reduce pathogen exposure. Electrolyte therapy is essential to combat dehydration, while antibiotics or anti-parasitics may be used depending on the cause. Vaccination of pregnant cows against common scours pathogens can also enhance calf immunity. By implementing strong biosecurity and management practices, producers can significantly reduce the incidence and impact of calf scours in their herd.

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SnapSHOT by CLARA is a powerful feature designed to provide quick, concise, and data-driven market updates for cattle producers, buyers, and industry professionals. With real-time insights, SnapSHOT delivers a brief but impactful overview of the key market indicators, including CME Feeder Cattle prices, corn futures, boxed beef values, and the Real-Time Index (RTI). The format is designed for efficiency, giving users a snapshot of the current market conditions in just a few lines, making it easy to digest even on a busy sale day or in the middle of operations.