Epi. 260 – Neonatal Calf Scours

AABP Executive Director Dr. Fred Gingrich is joined by Dr. Geoffrey Smith, dairy technical services veterinarian with Zoetis. Calf scours remains a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in beef and dairy calves. Smith reviews his presentation from the 2025 AABP conference in Omaha, Neb. and AABP members can view that presentation on the CE portal by going to this page. 

Understanding the pathophysiology of neonatal scours can help veterinarians and producers understand the treatment goals. Calves with scours typically have a metabolic acidosis with hyponatremia, hypokalemia, hypoglycemia and dehydration. It is important to replace the sodium to rehydrate the calf. Smith reviews the IV fluid therapy options including lactated ringers, isotonic sodium bicarbonate, hypertonic saline solution, and hypertonic sodium bicarbonate. Calculating the base deficit can be done with bloodwork but can also be estimated with an estimate of 20 mEq/L in a down calf.

Smith also reviews some guidelines for a good oral electrolyte solution which includes 90-130 mEq/L of sodium, glycine for an energy source and to help sodium be absorbed from the gut, an alkalinizing agent such as sodium bicarbonate or sodium acetate, a strong ion difference (sodium plus potassium minus chloride) of at least 60 which is an indication of the fluid’s ability to alkalinize the calf. 

We also review some of the questions asked at the conference. As we prepare for winter and the next calving season, this episode will help veterinarians and your clients prepare for treating calf scours when our prevention efforts fail.