Calf Scours - Causes, Prevention, and Treatment
Calf scours, or diarrhea, is one of the most common and potentially devastating conditions affecting young calves in North Texas, particularly during the spring calving season. Left untreated, calf scours lead to severe dehydration, stunted growth, or even the possibility of death. That’s why prevention, early intervention, and professional veterinary care are paramount to keeping a healthy herd.
What Causes Calf Scours?
Calf scours result from infections, nutritional imbalances, and environmental stressors including:
Infectious agents such as E. coli, rotavirus, coronavirus, Cryptosporidium, and Salmonella are common culprits.
Nutritional issues such as inconsistent feeding schedules or low-quality milk replacers, can upset a calf’s digestive system.
Environmental conditions, including damp, dirty, or overcrowded calving areas, create an ideal breeding ground for disease.
In regions like Springtown, Decatur, and Weatherford, where weather can fluctuate dramatically, calves are particularly vulnerable to these stressors during the critical early weeks of life.
Preventing Calf Scours in North Texas
The best defense against calf scours is a proactive approach. At Gursky Veterinary Services, we offer tailored recommendations to ranchers in Parker County, Tarrant County, and the greater DFW area to reduce scours outbreaks:
Colostrum:
Every calf needs to receive high-quality colostrum within 2 hours of birth. Colostrum builds immunity against infectious diseases.
Vaccinations:
Vaccinating your cows for rotavirus, coronavirus, and E. coli before calving helps protect newborn calves.
Sanitation:
Calving areas need to be kept clean, dry and well-ventilated.
Regular disinfecting of feeding equipment and water troughs should be done regularly.
Nutrition:
Calves need high-quality milk replacers and consistent feeding schedules.
Environmental Management:
Calving pens need to not be overcrowded with access to clean, dry bedding.
Together we can implement preventive procedures with an on-site farm or ranch visit if you’re located in Azle, Keller, or anywhere in North Texas.
Treating Calf Scours: What to Do When Prevention Isn’t Enough
Despite your best efforts, scours can still occur. When it does, quick action is essential.
Rehydration:
Dehydration is the biggest risk associated with scours. Oral electrolyte solutions rehydrate mildly affected calves, but severe cases often require intravenous fluids.
Our mobile vet services bring treatment directly to your farm, saving you time and stress.
Antibiotic and Supportive Care:
If bacterial infections are present, targeted antibiotics may be needed.
We provide professional guidance to avoid unnecessary antibiotic use while ensuring the best outcomes for your calves.
Monitoring and Recovery:
During recovery, keeping calves warm and reducing environmental stress is important. Our clinic in Springtown offers resources and advice to help you get your calves back to full health.
Why Choose Gursky Veterinary Services?
At Gursky Veterinary Services, we serve farmers and ranchers throughout Parker County, Tarrant County, and the greater DFW area. From Springtown and Decatur to Weatherford and Azle, we offer:
Farm and Ranch Calls: Expert care right to your farm or ranch, saving you time and reducing stress on your animals.
Comprehensive In-Clinic Services: Located in Springtown, our clinic is equipped to handle more intensive cases and provide preventive care consultations.
Tailored Solutions: Every ranch is unique, and so are its challenges. We work with you to develop prevention and treatment strategies that fit your specific needs.
Call Us Today
Don’t let calf scours threaten your herd’s health and your operation’s profitability. Contact Gursky Veterinary Services to schedule a farm/ranch call or visit our Springtown clinic. Whether you’re in Keller, Weatherford, Decatur, or anywhere in North Texas, we’re here to help you keep your calves healthy and thriving.
