Neonatal calf diarrhea (scours) is the most common cause of mortality in young calves and represents a major welfare burden in both dairy and beef suckler systems.
Calf scours welfare concerns span both prevention and treatment. The acute suffering of affected calves - weakness, abdominal pain, dehydration, and hypothermia - is significant and can progress rapidly to death. Prevention through excellent colostrum management, clean calving environments, and appropriate vaccination of dams is the most impactful welfare intervention available. When scours occurs, rapid recognition and treatment with oral or intravenous fluids and supportive care are essential. Analgesics are increasingly recognized as important components of scours treatment, reducing pain during the recovery period. Producers who monitor colostrum intake and have clear protocols for early scours identification and treatment achieve significantly better welfare outcomes.