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I recently had a heifer freshen with a bull calf. The calf seems to be healthy except that it cannot stand. My question is one of genetics. This calf is somewhat inbred. Is inbreeding the cause of the calf's malady, or is it due to other factors?
Last Updated: August 16, 2007
The problem was most likely feto-pelvic disproportion, meaning a big bull calf in a smaller than normal virgin heifer dam. If the delivery was prolonged for any reason, even though you may not have noticed a prolonged calving, the calf can be born with anoxia (low blood oxygen) or metabolic disorders (acidosis). These can all contribute the calf's inability to rise.
Inbreeding can lead to problems, but they are usually more noticeable than a "normal"-looking downer calf.
Dick Wallace, DVM, MS
Dairy Extension Veterinarian
University of Illinois - Illini DairyNET
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