News — Calves

Pinkeye (infectious keratoconjuntivitis) in cattle is a major concern for the well-being and comfort of the animals as well as performance and efficiency. This bacterial infection of the cornea (clear part of the eye) and conjunctiva (tissue above the cornea and underlying the eyelids) causes severe pain and may lead to temporary blindness.  What causes it? There are 2 primary bacteria that can cause pinkeye in cattle. Moraxella bovis, which causes the common summertime pinkeye and Moraxella bovoculi with is more common in confined cattle and seen in all seasons. What do you see? The initial clinical sign of a...

            The cold weather of late winter provides challenges to our cattle. Here are some of the situations I commonly see and my suggestions for solutions. Calves in Cold Weather             Until their rumens are developed, these baby calves are reliant on digestible energy intake to stay warm and grow. Immune function is greatly influenced by energy levels and body temperature. Here are considerations: High fat milk replacer – good quality milk fat is the best energy source for these babies. Increased feedings – during the coldest times, feeding 3 times per day for calves is very beneficial. Increasing the...

Scouring calves, lambs, & goat kids can be a challenge any time of year but are more critical during the winter months. Here is my review of some products that can be beneficial. Impro Opti-Start – A powdered product that is mixed in milk or electrolytes.  Contains antibodies and bioactive peptides from Impro whey and dried egg proteins.  High levels of active probiotics are combined with psyllium, which acts as a probiotic.  Also included are vitamins and electrolytes.  This is fed at 1-2 oz. per day for the first 2-4 weeks of age.  Approximate cost is $0.50 to $1.00 per calf...