Scours is often attributed to a combination of several pathogens working together to damage the intestinal tract lining, resulting in poor absorption and diarrhea.

As a result, calves suffering some scours often exhibit signs of dehydration including sunken eyes, cold nose and extremities, and joint infections. Common pathogens of scours include viruses (rotavirus and coronavirus), parasites (cryptosporidium and coccidia) and bacteria (clostridium, salmonella and E. coli).

Many of these pathogens are commonly found in the digestive tract of healthy, mature beef cattle and are shed through feces. While healthy, mature cattle have immunity to ward off infections, a newborn calf’s immune system isn’t fully functioning.

Thus, managing the environment is key to minimizing the risk of pathogen overload. Once the first calf’s immunity is compromised, the pathogens are shed from the infected calf and can rapidly spread throughout the herd.

The first step in a biosecurity prevention plan is to keep facilities clean and dry from old bedding, manure and mud. Avoid overcrowding, as it rapidly increases the risk of pathogen overload. Ensuring clean areas for the dams to rest also aids in clean udders and reduces the risk of contamination to nursing calves.

Consider grouping calves by age to prevent transmission of pathogens from older calves to young calves. While separating pairs from pregnant females every seven days would be the best-case scenario, it may not be realistic in many operations. Removal of pregnant females from pairs every three weeks or at the first signs of scours will aid in disrupting the pathogen cycle and slow down scours outbreaks.

For treatment of calf scours, supplemental electrolytes should be provided to correct dehydration. Look for products that include minerals like sodium, potassium and chloride, added energy sources such as glucose and buffering agents like bicarbonate or citrate.

Keep in mind, some of the most common pathogens found in scours are viruses and, thus, antibiotics may not be effective. Consult with your herd veterinarian to determine the best treatment plan. While hygiene is only a part of the equation to prevent calf scours, good management before and after calving is critical to calf survival during the first few weeks of life.  

• Erika Lundy

• Extension Beef Program Specialist
• Iowa Beef Center - Iowa State University
• Email Erika Lundy