Calf Scours Welfare: Prevention and Management

Neonatal calf diarrhoea (scours) is the most common cause of death in calves under 4 weeks old. Welfare management requires rapid oral rehydration and treatment of the primary pathogen.

Key Facts

Neonatal scours causes approximately 50% of calf deaths in the first month of life in the UK
Key pathogens include rotavirus, coronavirus, Cryptosporidium and E. coli K99
Dehydration from scours kills calves — not the primary infection alone
Oral electrolyte rehydration is effective and can be administered by the farmer
Colostrum management is the most important single prevention factor

Welfare Considerations

Scouring calves experience the intense discomfort of dehydration, metabolic acidosis and intestinal cramps. Untreated severe scours causes progressive weakness, recumbency and death over 24-48 hours. Early recognition and aggressive oral rehydration substantially reduces suffering and mortality. Adequate colostrum intake (at least 3 litres within 6 hours of birth) is the single most effective prevention — providing maternal antibody protection against the primary pathogens.

What You Can Do

Ensure colostrum management protocols guarantee every calf receives adequate colostrum within 6 hours
Monitor calves for scour signs from day 1 — early treatment is far more effective
Have oral electrolyte rehydration kits ready at calving time for immediate use
Vaccinate cows pre-calving against rotavirus and coronavirus where endemic
Consult your vet on appropriate antibiotic use — Cryptosporidium requires specific treatment beyond basic antibiotics