Effective management of calf health is crucial for beef producers, particularly in preventing outbreaks of calf scours, which can lead to significant economic losses. Calf scours is a common condition that primarily affects beef calves during their first six weeks of life. Once the disease takes hold, it can be challenging and costly to treat, making proactive management essential.

Calf scours is caused by a combination of environmental factors, the health status of the calf, and the presence of various pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and protozoa. These pathogens are often shed in the manure of cows around calving time and can proliferate in the manure of both scouring and healthy calves up to six months old. During an outbreak, the rapid accumulation of these pathogens in the environment can lead to severe health consequences for the calves.

The primary effects of scours include a significant loss of fluids and electrolytes due to diarrhea, which can result in dehydration, weakness, and, in severe cases, death. To mitigate the risk of calf scours within a herd, producers should implement several key management strategies:

• Avoiding Wet and Muddy Areas: Minimize contact between young calves and potential sources of infection by steering clear of wet, muddy areas or locations where manure has built up.
• Maximizing Colostrum Intake: Ensure that calves receive adequate colostrum shortly after birth, particularly avoiding calving difficulties (dystocia) that may hinder early bonding. Calves born to heifers are particularly vulnerable; any calf that does not suckle within six hours should be supplemented with colostrum.
• Reducing Stress and Overcrowding: Avoid conditions that can lead to stress, poor nutrition, or overcrowding, as these factors can exacerbate health issues.
• Preventing Pathogen Introduction: To avoid introducing new calf scour pathogens into the herd, refrain from replacing deceased calves with those from other properties. Additionally, do not introduce recently purchased animals into the calving herd.

When scours do occur, prompt control measures are essential to prevent rapid spread within the herd. Producers should relocate all pregnant cows to a new calving paddock, ensuring that affected calves are kept separate from healthy ones.

Treating a scouring calf requires supportive therapy to counteract the effects of diarrhea. This includes providing sufficient fluids and electrolytes to replace those lost. While the use of antibiotics may be necessary, it should only be done under the guidance of a veterinarian. Early intervention is critical; treatment should begin at the first signs of adverse clinical symptoms.

For additional guidance and support, producers are encouraged to consult with local veterinarians or animal health officers from Agriculture Victoria. These professionals can provide tailored advice and resources to help manage calf health effectively.

By implementing these management practices, beef producers can significantly reduce the incidence of calf scours in their herds, ensuring healthier calves and more sustainable production outcomes.