Treatment of scours should focus on replacing lost fluids, restoring acid base balance, and furnishing nutrients to the calf. An electrolyte formula should be administered along with milk, according to its label or by a veterinarian's recommendation. If more than 10 percent of the calves have a scours infection, taking fecal samples and sending them to a diagnostic lab for analysis can help in planning a prevention program. Depending on the cause of the problem, some options available include a dry cow vaccination program, calf vaccinations, and attention to all management practices starting at the calving site, to the calf raising facility, and to the feeding area. After scours, the second most common health problem for calves is pneumonia.
Pneumonia is an infection that inflames the calf's lungs.
It most commonly occurs during the fourth or fifth week of life. Although bacteria and viruses are the immediate causes, of greater significance is the calf's environment. Dampness, poor air quality, drafts, and chilling cold provide pneumnoia with a perfect environment in which to thrive. The accumulation of gases in confinement housing irritate the respiratory tract. Ammonia is one of the major irritants.