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Calf Scours-Causes, Prevention, and Treatment

Last Updated: April 20, 2011

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Fact Sheet written by:

Charles L. Stoltenow, DVM Diplomate ACVPM, Extension Veterinarian

Lani L. Vincent, DVM, MS Pathologist NDSU Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory

and provided by:

North Dakota State University www.ag.ndsu.edu


Calf scours is not a single disease entity; it is a clinical syndrome associated with several diseases characterized by diarrhea. Regardless of the cause, absorption of fluids from the intestine is altered, and life threatening electrolyte imbalances occur; that is, the scouring calf loses fluids, rapidly dehydrates, and suffers from electrolyte loss and acidosis. Infectious agents may cause initial damage to the intestine, but actual death from scours usually results from dehydration, acidosis, and loss of electrolytes. Identification of infectious agents which cause scours is essential for implementing effective preventive and treatment measures.

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Calf Scours

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