Dehydration in calves

- Impact of dehydration on calves health

·       Because of the haemoconcentration, there is an increase in the viscosity of the blood, which impedes

·       blood flow and may exacerbate peripheral circulatory failure.

·       The loss in circulating blood volume also contributes to the mental depression of dehydrated animals, which is

·       The increased endogenous metabolism under relatively anaerobic conditions results in the formation of acid metabolites and the development of metabolic acidosis.

·       Urine formation decreases because of the restriction of renal blood flow and this, together with the increased endogenous metabolism, causes a moderate increase

·       Death may occur due to severe acidosis, electrolyte imbalance, toxaemia or septicaemia