Diarrhea and Enteritis in Calves

- Treatment of diarrhea in calves

1- Rehydration and Electrolyte Replacement

• Oral Rehydration Solutions (ORS):
• Given frequently to replace lost fluids and electrolytes.
• Should contain sodium, potassium, chloride, glucose, and bicarbonate or acetate.
• Given in mild cases of calf diarrhea
• Intravenous Fluids:
• Used in severely dehydrated calves who cannot drink or are in shock.
• Control of acidosis by sodium bicarbonate IV solution.

2-Nutritional Support

• Continue Feeding (mild cases):
• Calves should continue to receive milk or milk replacer to provide energy.
• Feed smaller, more frequent meals if necessary.
• Withholding Milk:
• In severe cases, milk may be withheld for 12-24 hours while providing electrolytes, then gradually reintroduced.

3- Antimicrobial Therapy

• Antibiotics:
• Used if a bacterial infection is confirmed or strongly suspected.
• Broad-spectrum antibiotics are commonly used, but targeted therapy is preferred based on culture and sensitivity results.
• Probiotics:
• Can help restore normal gut flora and improve recovery.

4-Antiparasitic/ antiprotozoal therapy

o   Broad spectrum antiparasitic drugs must be used (thiabendazole, ivermectin).

o   Halofuginone and azithromycin have efficacy in calves with diarrhea due to Cryptosporidium parvum, and their administration should be considered in calves documented or suspected to have cryptosporidiosis.

o   For coccidiosis: Toltrazuril and diclazuril can be used for both treatment and prophylaxis of coccidiosis.

5-Anti-inflammatory Medications

• Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs):
• Used to reduce fever, inflammation, and discomfort in sick calves.
• Must be used under careful veterinary attention due to potential side effects.