Diarrhea and Enteritis in Calves

- Classification of diarrhea

1- Secretory diarrhea,

a. The fluid accumulation comes from an increased secretion into the gut caused by toxins activating enzyme systems.

b. The gut mucosa can no longer resorb this higher amount of liquid. 

2- Malabsorptive diarrhea

a.  Occurs due to destroyed enterocytes and shortened villi, the enzyme activity and absorption capacity are reduced.

b. Less liquid can be absorbed and has to be excreted via the gut. 

3- Inflammatory diarrhea,

a. The gut mucosa is damaged.

b. Higher amounts of mucus, protein, and blood are released into the gut lumen.