4 Calf health issues on pasture

Calf health issues on pasture usually come down to four things: pinkeye, parasites, scours, and pneumonia. "I call them the four production robbers," says Eric Moore, director of technical services for Norbrook Animal Health.

Here's his advice for each.

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Pinkeye

This bacterial scourge is primarily spread from calf to calf by flies. So, start there.

"And even with good fly control, flies from your neighbor's herd can bring pinkeye to you," he says. If pinkeye is bad, it can cost up to 125 pounds in weaning weight in blind calves.

Pinkeye is best controlled when caught early. Watch for tearing on calves' faces, and dust or pollen stuck around the eyes.

Fortunately, pinkeye usually responds to an antibiotic, Moore says, such as oxytetracycline. A low-dose injectable form of oxytetracycline is still available over-the-counter without a veterinary prescription. (Norbrook's version is Noromycin 300 LA.)

"The key is to have it with you when you're observing pasture cattle, and being ready to administer it at the first signs," Moore says.

Parasites

Your location will determine exactly which worms and flies are most troublesome to your herd. Consult your local veterinarian. "I see some people treat for worms and flies too early, way before the cattle go to pasture, thinking they're covered for the whole season," Moore says. "They miss worms that come on later, and flies aren't controlled."

His advice: Use a good dewormer program right as cows and calves go to pasture.

"If the parasites didn't survive the winter, and the cows go out parasite-free, they have a much better chance of staying worm-free through the season," Moore says. "I strongly recommend deworming the calves, too, along with the cows. They're small and only require a small dose. It's well worth it."

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Calf Scours

The key to controlling this problem is getting calves off to a good start right at birth.

"Make sure they are born on clean ground that doesn't have a lot of bugs already there, and that they get colostrum," Moore says.

"If you do see scours, it could be weather-related, overcrowding, or a poor vaccination program in the cow herd. It's really important to get your local veterinarian involved with this one. He or she will know the issues in your area."

Respiratory Issues

Summer pneumonia in grazing cattle flares up occasionally due to excess dust, bacteria, viruses, or even parasites.

"Some people think this comes on when a calf loses its early immunity," Moore says. "Watch for that calf with the droopy head and ears, a light cough, and a rough hair coat. Take their temperature to confirm an illness. Get your local veterinarian involved on this one, too."

Respiratory illness may respond to an antibiotic.

"Again, catching it early is critical," Moore says. "Treatment needs to happen right away. That calf most likely has been sick for a while."