Development of a newborn calf vigor scoring system

Authors

  • C. F. Murray-Kerr, Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road E, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada
  • K. E. Leslie Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road E, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada
  • S. M. Godden Department of Veterinary Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, 1365 Gortner Ave., St. Paul, MN 55108
  • W. A. Knauer Department of Veterinary Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, 1365 Gortner Ave., St. Paul, MN 55108
  • S. M. McGuirk Department of Medical Sciences, University of Wisconsin, School of Veterinary Medicine, 2015 Linden Drive, Madison, WI 53706

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21423/aabppro20183216

Keywords:

Dystocia, Holstein cattle, pain management, newborn calves, reduce pain, inflammation, acidosis, Scoring System

Abstract

Dystocia is a significant issue in Holstein cattle. Injury, pain, inflammation, acidosis, and low overall vitality are common effects seen in calves that survive. In humans, a standard vigor scoring system has been used for over 60 years. This score is based on Appearance, Pulse, Grimace, Activity, and Respiration (Apgar Score). A validated method of assessment of newborn calf vitality has not been developed. Also, pain management in newborn calves after dystocia is not often addressed by veterinarians or producers. It was the overall objective of this research to identify the various effects of calving difficulty on newborn dairy calves, and to relate these effects to easily measurable signs of reduced vigor. These signs were quantified into a VIGOR Scoring System. Also, methods to reduce pain, inflammation, and acidosis resulting from dystocia were investigated.

Cover image of the 51st Conference Proceedings: A man riding on a pale horse herding cattle on a semi-arid pasture

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Published

2018-09-13

Issue

2018

Section

Research Summaries

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