Farm Animal Welfare

Cattle Calf Scours Prevention and Welfare

Calf scours (neonatal diarrhoea) is one of the leading causes of calf mortality worldwide, but many cases are preventable through colostrum management and hygiene.

Key Facts

Calf scours causes up to 50% of pre-weaning calf deaths on some farms
Rotavirus, coronavirus, E. coli and cryptosporidiosis are major causes
Adequate colostrum in the first 6 hours of life is the single most important protection
The Sandhills calving system dramatically reduces scours outbreaks
Oral electrolyte therapy saves most scouring calves if started early

Welfare Considerations

Calf scours causes significant suffering through dehydration, weakness and death. Prevention through excellent colostrum management, vaccination of cows pre-calving, strict hygiene and moving cows to clean calving areas breaks the cycle. Early treatment with oral electrolytes and veterinary care when needed saves lives.

What You Can Do

Support farms with strong calf health protocols
Advocate for colostrum management standards in dairy and beef codes of practice
Choose dairy products from farms with low calf mortality records