Calves nursing high producing dams or nursing cows with especially full udders, such as after a storm, may be more susceptible. Overeating tends to produce indigestion which causes slowing or absence of normal gut movement, preventing the normal flushing effect of poisons and other products. Also, alterations in nursing patterns, such as those happening during storms or occurrences causing separation of dam and calf, result in abrupt changes in the amount of milk consumed, interfering with the balance of normal bacteria in the gut. The two poisons produced by Clostridium perfringens , Type C, are called alpha and beta toxins. Each results in damage to specific tissues.
Alpha toxin causes hemolysis, or breakdown of red blood cells.
Beta toxin is the most damaging poison, creating inflammation of the intestine and loss of intestinal lining. The two together result in severe intestinal damage and bleeding. Beta toxin, a protein, can be inactivated by enzymes that digest proteins, especially trypsin. However, young calves have low levels of trypsin, giving them decreased ability to combat this poison. Body immune systems, including colostrum from the dam, are helpful in controlling the disease.