Critical Calf Care

Abstract

Most newborn calf deaths occur prior to weaning, and perinatal mortality that occurs within 48 hours of birth is an increasingly important problem. High-risk calves are delayed in head righting, sitting, and standing attempts. They may be meconium stained, have had an assisted delivery, or been born with a short or prolonged gestation. Without critical care, many of these calves adapt poorly and are at risk for poor colostrum absorption, hypoglycemia, hypothermia, respiratory acidosis, disease, and death. Neonatal resuscitation, oxygen delivery, and fluid administration improves survival rate. Colostrum delivery, clinical monitoring, intravenous catheter placement and maintenance, supportive care, and the implementation of effective treatment protocols performed by trained veterinary technicians provide added value to the large animal veterinarian by enhancing the survival and health of calves.