Evidence-based information about cattle calf scour: prevention, oral rehydration, and welfare for animal welfare improvement.
Scouring calves experience rapid dehydration, acid-base imbalance, and weakness that can be fatal within 24-48 hours if untreated. The welfare cost of untreated scour is severe and entirely preventable with correct management. Oral rehydration therapy must be provided alongside continued milk feeding to prevent the energy deficit that compounds dehydration.