Calf scours is a challenge that keeps cow/calf producers on edge, and for good reason. It’s the leading cause of financial loss in herds, hitting harder than any other health problem. What makes it so worrisome is how quickly it can show up and spread, much like wildfire sweeping through dry grass. To make matters worse, calf scours can be a bit of a puzzle, leaving many producers scratching their heads about what exactly they’re dealing with.
The tricky part about calf scours is that it isn’t just one disease—it’s a clinical sign linked to several different issues. No matter the underlying cause, the result is the same: diarrhea. This condition prevents the intestines from absorbing the fluids calves desperately need to stay healthy. Without proper intervention, this simple yet serious issue can escalate rapidly, making calf scours a significant concern for anyone raising calves.
Speaking to any seasoned producer, they’ll emphasize the severity of this issue. Calf scours is the leading cause of death for calves aged 2 to 30 days. The primary culprit isn’t the disease itself but the dehydration it causes. However, the good news is that calf scours are highly treatable with early and effective intervention. The key is to act swiftly and take the right steps to both treat and prevent it from wreaking havoc on your herd.
