About Scours
Scours results in 52% of all calf losses. Pathogens and elements of feeding are the two root causes. Contributing factors that exacerbate the problem are low immunity, caused by breaches in colostrum and vaccine protection, and stress due to housing, feeding, weather and transport conditions.These adverse factors can damage intestinal cells and cause nutrient malabsorption. This intestinal disruption produces excessive osmotic pressure and loss of water (diarrhea). A scouring calf can lose up to 10% of its bodyweight in one day! Sodium, potassium, bicarbonate, sugars and amino acids are passed out in the feces, creating life-threatening conditions such as acidosis. Simply put, scours leads to dehydration…and dehydration can quickly lead to death.

Symptoms
Check calves for skin inelasticity, dry mouth, difficulty standing, sunken eyes and cold legs that mean hypothermia. They’re all symptoms of scours and need to be treated immediately.

Effective Treatment
Rapid rehydration is critical. First, you must discontinue feeding milk or milk replacer while treating scours. Replacing with non-milk sustenance, such as HYDRAFEED, will allow a calf’s system to regain normal physiological balance and optimum pH without further irritation. To regain proper blood pH and reverse existing acidosis, administer solutions that contain bicarbonate and citric acid. HYDRAFEED delivers this, as well as lactose for double-strength energy, and a palatable, vanilla aroma to help maintain appetite through recovery.