TREATMENT Guidelines                                             18 August, 1995

Aristocrat Angus and Aristocrat Reproduction Center

 

SECTION  I:    NEWBORN CALVES

1.         Treatment of the calf at birth

            A.        Supplies needed:

                        1.         Iodine, 7% tincture

                        2.         Calf Gaurd; oral Rota and Corona viruses vaccine

                        3.         Clostridium perfringens types C & D Toxiod

                        4.         Clostridium perfringens types C & D Antitoxin

                        5.         BoSe;  injectable selenium and vitamin E supplement                

                        6.         Iron Dextran injection

                        7.         Vitamin B complex (with B12)

                        8.         Ear tags

                        9.         Tattoo equipment

 

            B.        Immediatly at the time of calving do the following

1.         CALFGAURD (Smith Kline Beecham), this products should be given within 6 hours of birth at the very latest, if it is given within 2 hours of birth it will be more effective.

2.         Iodine navel, use 7% strong tincture of iodine, do not use tamed iodine, navel iodine or teat dip, these products do not dry and seal the navel as well as 7% tincture.

3.         Clostridium perfringens C&D Antitoxin 10cc subcutaneously

4.         Clostridium perfringens C&D Toxoid 2cc subcutaneously  (read label, some brands are 2cc and some brands are 5 cc,  we are currently using Pfizers Ultrabac CD which is a 2cc dose)

5.         BO-SE  2cc intramuscular

6.         If the calf appears to be starting slow, is weak, or if the calf was pulled; it may have lost blood, via the placenta, into the uterus.  The following may be given in these situations:

            a.         Vitamin B complex

            b.         Iron dextran

            If the calf seems to be in extreme distress call for a veterinarian and place the calf in a “hot box” or someplace warm (DO NOT place the calf on a cold surface, even in a warm room, use straw, blankets or mats under the calf).  If the calf is in shock or is hypothermic IV fluids can be given.  If the calf is in shock from blood loss; a blood transfusion can be given to the calf (blood collected from the cow).

7.         Tag - left ear for heifers, right ear for bulls.

            NOTE:  If it is below zero (temperature) it would be better to wait 24 hours to tag the calf.   Tagging and tattooing may contribute to frost bite of the ear if the calf’s ears are still wet or if the calf is hypothermic.   Use spray paint or chalk to mark the calf if any confusion as to identity is possible.

8.         Tattoo - left ear, leave right ear free for brucellosis vaccination tattoo and tag and for 2nd tattoo at weaning time, disinfect tattoo pliers in a  Nolvasan solution or with alcohol between calves.

9.         Colostrum, verify that calf has consumed enough.  In general a calf should consume 8 to 10%  (one gallon) of it's body weight in colostrum within the first 24 hours after calving.  Make sure the cow's udder has been nursed.  If in doubt, milk the cow and administer colostrum by 6 hours post-partum.  It is best to allow the calf to suckle from a nursing bottle (clean).  If suckling from a bottle is not possible, it is acceptable to use an esophageal  feeder to give the colostrum.  Do not administer more than the calf will suckle at one time.  It is best to give 1 quart every 4 or 5 hours during the first 12 hours for a total of 1/2 to 1 gallon (a large; 100 LB, calf can take as much as 1/2 gallon at a single feeding but be careful, giving too much at one time can cause the calf to aspirate fluid into the lungs).  Do not feed anything prior to feeding colostrum or a colostrum substitute,  not even electrolytes,  as the first feeding will start a process whereby the stomach  and intestines start to loose their ability to absorb undigested antibodies. 

 

            Colostrum from the dam or other beef cow is far superior to any of the colostrum substitutes as a source of antibodies.  In a pinch the substitutes are better than nothing. A Colostrum substitute should be manufactured from colostral protein and not blood or serum proteins, as IgG antibody levels will be higher.  Colostrum substitutes can also serve as an excellent source of energy and antibodies for a weak or ill calf.  Dairy cow colostrum tends to be dilute and can be a poor source of antibodies.  If dairy colostrum is used it should be checked with a colostrometer (a colostrometer measures the specific gravity of the colostrum which correlates which the IgG antibody concentration).

 

Colostrum composition

 

 

 

            A few notes on using an esophageal feeder:  Never use an esophageal feeder when the calf is laying down or in shock.  Get the calf up to tube it.  If the calf is weak, but is able to stand, cut the amount of fluid given at one time in half (a pint at a time is a good amount).  Feed weak calves a pint of warm colostrum every 3 to 4 hours (up to 6 time a day).  As the calf gets stronger you can go to 1 quart per feeding every 6 to 8 hours (3 time a day).  Keep an eye on the stomach and make sure that it is not overfilled prior to feeding.

10.       Specific Antibody Preparations - GENECOL-99 (Shering), FIRST DEFENSE (ImmuCell Corp.), or other E. coli antibodies, can be given for scours prevention.  Usually used only if diarrhea becomes a problem during the calving season.  They should be given ASAP after birth along with CALFGAURD.

 

            D.        Data collection,

1.         Date and time of birth

2          Calf  ID:  Tag/tattoo #, 

            Dam ID

            Sire ID

            Sex of calf

            Twin Y/N  and  Twin's ID #

            Comments.

3.         calving weight,  obtain after calf is dry.

4.         Calving ease score:  1=unassisted, 2=easy pull, 3=hard pull, 4=C-section,  5=malpresentation,

5.         Vigor score:   1=vigorous, 2=weak but suckling,  3=Required assistance to suckle 4=Died at birth or shortly after

6.         Death loss codes:  0=predator, 1=abortion, 2=scours, 3=pneumonia, 4=white muscle disease,  5=enterotoxemia, 6=birth related, 7=accident, 8=cold stress, 9=other

7.         Age at death codes:  1 = under 15 days,  2 = 15 to 30 days,  3 = 30 days to branding,   4 = branding to weaning

 

 

2.         Calf resuscitation

            1.         A piece of straw, placed in the nose, will stimulate sneezing to clear the airway.

            2.         Stimulate the calf with massage.

            3.         Hang the calf to drain excess fluid from the mouth, trachea and bronchi

            4.         Swinging the calf is usually not necessary.  Be careful not to give the calf a concussion.

            5.         Intra-tracheal tube:  If the calf is still having a hard time breathing, after draining fluid from the mouth, throat & trachea, an intra-tracheal tube may be placed into the trachea.  Only use a tube after all fluid is drained.

            6.         Dopram injectable (Robbins) solution, 2 or 3 cc I.V., or I.M. in base of tongue, will stimulate breathing in a stressed calves at birth. Give Dopram early if the calf is not moving air (in the first 2 minutes after birth).  Dopram may be repeated in 3 to 5 minutes if necessary.  It is probably best to use oxygen and / or a tracheal tube with Dopram,  at least have O₂ and the tube handy.

            7.         Oxygen, keep an O₂ bottle or an O₂-acetylene welding rig nearby, industrial oxygen is OK.

            8.         If a functional Vetspirator is available it may be used to apply suction and administer oxygen.  If only oxygen is available place a tube up the calves nose and turn the oxygen on.  A welding tip can be places in a loose fitting bag over the calves head and oxygen turned on.

            9.         Calves that have had respiratory difficulty are very susceptible to hypothermia.  Once a calf is breathing it is important to keep it warm. Place it on a heating pad or in a hot box until it acts alert and strong. 

            10        If necessary milk the dam and feed colostrum by 4 hours post-partum.  A calf should consume 8 to 10%  of it's body weight in colostrum in the first 8 to 12 hours after birth.

            11.       Bed cow and calf on clean straw.  Straw is the preferred bedding for calving as the incidence of umbilical infections, joint-ill, metritis and mastitis is lower than on saw dust or manure pack bedding.

 

4.         Heifers that will not accept their calf

            1.         Confine to a stall with the calf.  Be careful that she doesn’t maul the calf.

            2.         Acepromazine: if the heifer is aggressive towards the calf administer 2 or 3 cc of acepromazine.  Acepromazine will relax the heifer and may stimulate maternal instincts (causes release of prolactin hormone)

            2.         Rompun:  If the cow is still hostile towards the calf after acepromazine;  give cow 0.5cc of rompun IM.

            3.         Chute:  milk some colostrum from the cow (use oxytocin) and the allow the calf to suckle.  Use the colostrum that has been milked to assure adequate consumption by the calf.

 

Neonatal Disorders:

1.         Neonatal Maladaption

 

A.        SYMPTOMS:    Inability or no desire to rise and/or suckle post-partum.  Frequently caused by difficult calving resulting in cerebral hypoxia (lack of oxygen during delivery).  Can have permanent damage similar to cerebral palsy in humans.  Other causes include viral infections while still in the uterus resulting in atrophy of areas of the brain, limb deformities, cleft palate, mild to severe hydrocephalus, other neurologic defects, circulatory defects, etc.  If progressive it may lead to respiratory difficulty, convulsions and death.

 

B.        TREATMENT:  In general there is no specific treatment unless a diagnoses is made of a treatable disease such as a bacterial infection or hypothermia,  Supportive therapy is all that can be offered. 

1.         Adequate colostrum;  a calf should consume about 8 to 10%  (about one gallon) of it's body weight in colostrum in the first 12 hours after birth.  It is best if the calf can be forced to suckle the colostrum as this results in the colostrum being swallowed directly into the fourth stomach.  If unable to make the calf suckle it should be tubed and given colostrum.  The calf should be given 2 pints every 2 or 3 hours during the first 12 hours so that it consumes 1 gallon without overloading the stomach.   NEVER tube feed a calf that is lying on its side, place it on it's sternum or get it up on it's feet.

2.         Maintain the calf's body temperature or re-warm the calf if already chilled.  Many times during cold weather a hypothermic calf will act maladapted but be perfectly fine once it is warmed.  Don’t rely on a heat source only to re-warm the calf;  It needs energy also.  The best source of energy is colostrum.  If colostrum is not available use one of the colostral substitutes, such as Colostrix or Immuno-36. These products contain abundant sugars and fat that are readily absorbed by the calf as well as providing antibodies that are at least available in the gut if not absorbed as well as colostral antibodies.    Do not use Immuno-36 in place of colostrum for newborn calves, it just isn’t as good.  It is excellent for hypothermic and/or malnourished calve though.   If the calf is severely chilled an IV drip will be required.

3.         Continuing nutrition for a maladapted calf include cows milk at the rate of  8% of its body weight per day divided into 3 feeding for the first week then 2 feedings per day thereafter.

4.         There aren't any drugs that can be recommended on a routine basis.  Frequently anti-inflammatory drugs such as Banamine are of benefit.  Antibiotics should be used to prevent secondary infections.  Penicillin G at 5cc per day SC is usually adequate.

 

 

 

 

SECTION II:

CALVING COWS

 

1.         Calving difficulty (Dystocia)

 

A.        SYMPTOMS: Obvious in most cases, membranes and or calve exposed through vulva.   A breech calf or a calf turned sideways or other mal-presentation may cause the heifer (cow) to show very few signs of calving.  Look for a elevated tail, isolation from herd, discharge that is bloody or clear with a low viscosity.  Heifers should be allowed a maximum of 2 hours from the time that the "water bag" is exposed to have her calf.  After that she should be assisted.  During the waiting period though leave her alone and stay out of sight as disturbances will delay calving.  Plan to have her at a chute within 2 hours of starting if she makes no progress.  If in doubt about when she started to calve (i.e. water already broken and a foot exposed) when you first find her, check for progress in 30 to 40 minutes, if none take her to the calving barn and give her assistance.

 

B.        ASSISTANCE:

            1.         Wash vulva and your hands and arms with a disinfectant soap prior to exam

            2.         Use a sleeve to examine the heifer

            3.         Use lots of water-soluble, clean lubricant in examination and delivery,  especially if the heifer is dry when examined.

            4.         double loop chains on the calves pastern and above the fetlock before applying very much traction.  A single loop may break a leg.

            5.         If it is necessary to repel the calf back into the uterus in order to straighten a leg or the head, take your time.  Rapid forceful repulsion will damage or rupture the uterus.  Use lots of lube.

            6.         If the head is turned back or will not enter the pelvic cavity when the calf is pulled it is likely that the heifer requires a C-Section.  Do not apply heavy traction to the head during a difficult pull.  Use a loop of chain around the poll and into the mouth to attempt to straighten the head prior to applying traction.  Use lots of lube.

            7.         To straighten a leg on a breech presentation; place a loop of chain around the calves pastern and then repel the calf slowly by pushing on the hock.  Protect the uterus and vagina from bruising or laceration caused by the calves hoof by holding a hand over the hoof as the chain attached to it is pulled.   A similar procedure will work for the front legs.

            8.         If the vagina narrows down drastically before you can reach the calf or cervical area consider the possibility that the cow has a twisted uterus.  If this has occurred you may be able to identify longitudinal spiral folding in the wall of the vagina.  The calf is probably lying upside down or sideways unless the twist is almost 360 degrees.  This can sometimes be corrected by swinging the calf in the opposite direction of the torsion or rolling the cow in the same direction as the torsion while stabilizing the calf.  If these attempts fail a C-Section is required.

 

 

2.         Calving Procedures

           

A.        Calving supplies:

            1.         disinfectant solution (Nolvasan or Betadine) for washing the vulva; one ounce per gallon of clean water is an effective wash solution.

            2.         soap,  Ivory soap or other detergent

            3.         obstetrical lubricant;  always use a lot of lubricant in delivering a calf especially if the cow has been trying to calf for a while and the tract is dry.

            4.         obstetrical chains, 2 - 30” chains and 2 - 60” chains

            5.         3- handles for chains

            6.         calf puller or a come-along

            7.         calf supplies: iodine, C&D antitoxin, C&D toxoid, Calfgaurd, BoSe, B-vitamins, iron tattoo pliers, tattoo letters and numbers, tattoo ink, ear tagger, ear tags, tag marking pen,

            8.         Dopram injectable

            9.         oxygen

            10.       endotracheal tube

 

TYPICAL CALVING PROBLEMS

A.        The calf is too big:   The best indicator of whether a large calf is pullable or not is whether the calf’s head and legs are through the cows pelvis and presented at the vulva.  Palpate the birth canal to check for additional room and if the pelvis seems as if it will accommodate the calf go ahead and pull it.  If the calf’s head is not entering the cow’s pelvis in spite of adequate dilation of the cow’s birth canal, a cesarean section is usually needed.

B.        The calf is backwards, no legs (but it got a tail) (breech presentation):  It is easiest to work with a cow that has a breech presentation by first giving her an epidural anesthetic with 5 to 12 cc of 2% Lidocaine.  After the epidural takes effect you can gently push the calf’s rump back into the womb and reach for the hock of the first rear leg.  Once the hock is found place one end of a 60” chain in front of and around the calf’s hock and pull it back out of the vulva so that both ends of the chain are outside the vulva.  Place one end of the chain through the loop on the other end and tighten the chain around the area of the leg below the hock (cannon).  Then push the loop in the chain down the leg until it is around the calf’s pastern (between the dew claws and the foot).  Next you need to push the hock up and forward while gently applying traction to the calf’s pastern (foot), in order to deliver the foot into the birth canal.  If the foot is hard to pull use your hand around the foot to protect the cow’s uterus as you apply traction on the chain.  It will sometimes take several attempts at first pushing the hock forward and alternately grabbing the foot to succeed and not do any damage to the cow’s uterus or vagina.   Once you get the first foot delivered; repeat the process on the second leg.  After both legs are delivered proceed as outlined below under “backward with the feet presented”.

C.        The calf’s feet are upside down:

            1.         Backwards with the feet presented.  Usually it is OK to pull these calves if the rump and tail will enter the cows pelvis easily.  If it is difficult to get the calf’s hips into the cow’s pelvic canal due to large calf size the calf may also hang up when it’s ribs are pulled through the cows pelvis.  It takes good judgment and experience to decide when to pull these calves and when to call the veterinarian.  It is frequently better to do a cesarean section if the calf is large.

            2.         Forwards but upside down:  Usually the head is back also.  As you straighten the head and bring it into the birth canal, the calf will begin to twist into an upright position with assistance.  Be aware that the uterus may also be twisted.

            3.         Twisted uterus:  As you enter the birth canal you notice that it narrows down and it is difficult or impossible to reach the calf.  You will notice that the vagina is twisted into spiral folds.  It is necessary to un-twist the uterus before you can deliver the calf through the vagina.  Frequently a cesarean section is required.

D.        A leg is back:  After delivering both legs into the birth canal make sure that you have a matching pair of front feet back feet.  Occasionally there will only be one leg showing and the nearest foot inside the uterus is not the mate to the one showing.  Also verify the the two legs you are pulling on belong to the same calf.  When twins are present the will sometimes each have a leg in the birth canal.

E.        The head is back:  Unless the head can be easily straightened and brought into the cow’s pelvis; you must consider this to be a sign that the calf is too big for vaginal delivery.  If you attempt to straighten the head use a 60” chain and place a large loop around the calf’s poll (behind the ears) and through the mouth.  gentle traction can thus be applied to the head.  Be careful!  Any manipulation of the calf’s head is dangerous.

F.         Sideways:  Use an epidural of 5 to 10 cc of Lidocaine before manipulating the calf.

G.        The heifer isn’t dilated yet

            1.         bring the calf’s feet and head into the birth canal and proceed very slowly.  You can also wait for 30 minutes to see if she dilates better.

            2.         Occasionally the cervix will not adequately dilate.  This condition is referred to as “ring womb”.  If not severely restricted, gentle but persistent traction applied to the calf will allow delivery with minimal trauma to the cervix or vagina.  If severe a C-Section is required.

H.        Episiotomy:  An incision in the dorsal lateral wall of the exterior vulva.   An episiotomy can be used to increase the vulvar area when a calf is progressing through the pelvis but birth is impeded by a small vulvar area.  The episiotomy should begin at 10:00 o’clock or 2:00 o’clock positions on the outside of the vulva and extend into the vulva only as far as is necessary to allow exteriorization of the crown of the head.  Usually birth will proceed easily thereafter.  The incision should be sutured immediately after delivery.  Usually the area is numb and little if any local anesthetic is required for suturing.

I.          How long should I wait?  Generally 2 hours from the time that the cow’s water bag is showing or breaks is long enough to wait and she should have assistance at that time.  Sometimes a cow will only show subtle sign of trying to calf (Breech presentations for instance).  These signs include nervousness, walking, lying down ad rising again quickly, mild straining and tail elevation.  If these signs persist for 2 hours and no progress is made the cow should be checked.  You may just be too early but it is better to be safe than sorry.

J.         Fetotomy of a dead calf (puke!),  do yourself a favor and call a veterinarian.

 

K.        Post delivery care:

            1.         Administer 2 or 3 ml. of oxytocin to the cow after a difficult delivery.  You can use this opportunity to easily obtain some colostrum from the cow as oxytocin will do two things: cause involution of the uterus and cause let down of her milk.

            2.         If the calf is weak or stressed; milk the heifer for colostrum before releasing her.  Wait a few minutes after administering the oxytocin, as this will cause her to "let down" her milk.

            3.         If a heifer's vulva is torn; take the time to clean the area, dry the vulva and suture the laceration or use Super-Glue to glue only the skin of the laceration so that the vulva looks as normal as possibly (don’t glue the placenta to the vulva).  If the heifer is excessively "stretched out" place a purse string suture around the entire circumference of the vulva using a Buhner needle and umbilical tape.  Don't forget to untie and remove the purse string in 2 to 4 days.

 

 

3.         Retained Placenta,  In cows less than 10 days post-partum

 

A.        SYMPTOMS:   Obvious in most cases where placenta extend from the vulva.  Occasionally though the placenta may be completely internal.  Result in a fetid discharge, straining,   tail switching,  depression,  off feed,  and if left un-attended, rapid weight loss.  Temp. 103.0 to 107.0

 

B.        TREATMENT:

Day 1 post-partum:

            a.         Usually no treatment is necessary,  if in doubt about when the cow calved, or if the cow appears sick;  go to day 2 treatment.

Day 2

            a.         6 ml Penicillin G./100 Lb. IM

            b.         Thoroughly clean vulva with a disinfectant soap, rinse and dry.  Perform a vaginal/uterine exam if no placenta is exposed.  Try to exteriorize the placenta but do not apply traction.  Infuse with  5 ml Oxytetracycline (100mg/ml)/100 lbs into the uterus.

Day 3

            a.         6 ml Penicillin G./100 lbs S.C.

Day 4  and every other day until cow cleans

            a.         6 ml Penicillin G./100 lbs S.C.

            b.         Thoroughly clean vulva with a disinfectant soap, rinse and dry.  Try to remove the placenta but DO NOT apply traction or try to "un-button" the placenta.  Infuse with  5 ml Oxytetracycline (100mg/ml)/100 lbs into the uterus.

Withdrawal - 30 days

 

4.         Uterine Infection (Metritis), In cows over 10 days post-partum:

 

A.        SYMPTOMS:   Usually occurs in cows which have had a retained placenta.  Uterine discharge can vary from a fetid watery with blood and tissue debris to a yellow pus discharge.  Often the discharge is seen adhered to tail or in pools on the ground where a cow has laid.  If severe the cow may show depression,  be off feed and have a  Temp. of 103.0 to 105.0

 

B.        TREATMENT #1:   for cows with severe metritis that are running a fever (over 103.5)

Day 1

            a.         Thoroughly clean vulva with a disinfectant soap, rinse and dry.  Perform a vaginal/uterine exam.  If  placenta is found remove as much as possible.

            b.         If the uterus if full of tissue debris and smelly fluid,  the uterus may be rinsed with a clean stomach tube and pump using a solution of 5 gallons of warm water, 6 oz. table salt and 1/2 pint of tamed iodine solution.    Fill the uterus with 1/2 to 2 gallons and siphon off the fluid.  Repeat until fluid is flowing clear from the uterus.

            c.         If the vagina is injured and infected the cow may be sucking air into the uterus.  If air is being sucked into the uterus it will prevent uterine involution.  Give an epidural with 5 to 8 ml Lidocaine and place a purse string suture around the vulva using a buhner needle and umbilical tape.   Remove suture in 3 to 5 days.

            d.         10 ml Penicillin G./100 lbs IM and SC

            e.         Infuse with  5 ml Oxytetracycline (100mg/ml)/100 lbs into the uterus.

            f.          5 ml Lutalyse IM

Day 3

            a.         10 ml Penicillin G./100 lbs S.C.

            b.         Infuse with  5 ml Oxytetracycline (100mg/ml)/100 lbs into the uterus.

            c.         5 ml Lutalyse IM

Day 5

            a.         6 ml Penicillin G./100 lbs S.C.

            b.         Infuse with  5 ml Oxytetracycline (100mg/ml)/100 lbs into the uterus.

Withdrawal - 30 days

 

            C.        TREATMENT #2:   for cows with metritis that are not running a fever ,   have a thick pus discharge and are probably 3 weeks or more post-partum:

                        1.         5 ml Lutalyse IM, 

                        2.         repeat Lutalyse in 10 to 12 days if possible.

 

 

5.         Mastitis

 

A.        SYMPTOMS:   One or more hard swollen quarters of the mammary gland.  Usually the calf won't nurse the affected quarter which makes the situation worse.   The milk can vary from a watery serum colored fluid to normal looking milk with pus flecks to a  yellow pus discharge.   If severe the cow may show depression,  be off feed and have a  Temp. of 103.0 to 107.0

 

B.        TREATMENT:

Day 1

            a.         Clean or alcohol teat and strip all milk from affected quarters

            b.         Infuse quarter with 1 Pirsue (Upjohn) syringe or other intra-mammary infusion of antibiotics

            c.         5 ml LA-200/100 lbs IM

            d.         for cows with severe mastitis that are running a fever (over 103.5)

                        1.         5 ml Oxytetracycline (100mg/ml)/100 lbs IV

                        2.         10 ml Dexamethasone IM

                        3.         10 ml Banamine IM

Day 2

            a.         Clean or alcohol teat and strip all milk from affected quarters

            b.         Infuse quarter with 1 Pirsue (Upjohn) syringe or other intra-mammary infusion of antibiotics

            c.         for cows with severe mastitis that are still running a fever (over 103.5)

                        1.         5 ml Oxytetracycline (100mg/ml)/100 lbs IV

                        2.         10 ml Banamine IM

Day 3

            a.         Clean or alcohol teat and strip all milk from affected quarters

            b.         Infuse quarter with 1 Pirsue (Upjohn) syringe or other intra-mammary infusion of antibiotics

            c.         5 ml LA-200/100 lbs IM

Withdrawal - 30 days

 

6.         Post-Partum Paralysis

            A.        SYMPTOMS:   Inability to rise after calving.  Caused by pinching of the obturator nerve or other nerves in the pelvic cavity during prolonged dystocia or by pulling a calve that should have been delivered by C-Section.

            B.        TREATMENT:

Day 1

            a.         30 ml Dexamethasone IV or IM

            b.         10 ml Banamine IM

            c.         Roll cow from side to side every 2 hours,  attempt to get cow to her feet.

            d.         If cow seems depressed consider the possibility of other concurrent disease such as Milk fever.

            e.         use antibiotics such as penicillin if the cow remains recumbent for over 24 hours

                       

 

7.         Milk Fever (Hypocalcemia)

A         SYMPTOMS:  Inability to rise or occasionally staggering, depressed, low Temp. (under 101.0).  Usually occurs within 2 days of calving.  Is rare in beef cattle but does occur in high producing older cows.

B.        TREATMENT:

1.  Day 1

            a.         500 ml Calcium Gluconate solution IV

            b.         if no response in 2 or 3 hours administer 500 ml Calcium with Magnesium, Phosphorous and Potassium IV

            c.         Roll cow from side to side every 2 hours,  attempt to get cow to her feet.

            d.         If cow seems excited or belligerent  consider the possibility of  Hypomagnesemia

 

 

8.         Grass Staggers or Tetany (Hpomagnesemia)

A         SYMPTOMS:  Inability to rise, tetanic convulsions or staggering.  Apprehensive, excited and/or belligerent.  Temp.  104.0 to 105.0 once tetany symptoms have started.  Occurs most often in lactating cows or cows soon to calve that are on lush early growth grass pasture.   Any type of cattle can be affected, especially cattle on wheat pasture in the spring.  Can also occur in non-supplemented cattle on poor winter feed, deficient in energy and magnesium.

B.        TREATMENT:

            1.         500 ml  Calcium with Magnesium, Phosphorous and Potassium IV (CMPK)

            2.         250 ml 50% Epsom salt solution SC  (125 grams Epsom salts in  125 ml sterile water.  Use a 250 ml bottle of sterile water and pour out half, fill slowly with clean Epsom salts until the bottle is 3/4 full, mix until dissolved).

            3.         If cow is in severe convulsions 3 to 5 ml of acepromazine may be given IV

            4.         Repeat treatments every 12 hours as needed to effect a cure or prevent recurrence if the animal remains staggery or off feed.

            5.         Use caution: after treatment some animals are wild and will attach.

C.        PREVENTION:   Supply cattle in the spring with a high magnesium salt and mineral supplement.

 

 

 

Section III:       FEEDER CATTLE AND PASTURE CATTLE, GENERAL

 

1.         Shipping Fever, Pneumonia, 

 

A.        SYMPTOMS: Depression, difficult breathing, Temp. 103.5 - 107.0+, discharge from eyes and/or nose, coughing, off feed

 

B.        TREATMENT #1: Simple one day treatment, good for pasture cattle

Day 1

            a.         1.5 ml Micotil/100 lbs SC  - give ONLY sub-cutaneous (SC)

            b.         1 ml Banamine/100 lbs IV

            c.         4 ml Vit. C/100 lbs SC

            d.         2.5 ml ReCovr/100 lbs SC (if breathing is labored)

            Use Micotil only once, do not retreat.  If an animal does not seem to respond to Micotil; switch to TREATMENT #2 by 48 hours after initial TREATMENT, switch by 24 hours for seriously ill animals.

Withdrawal -- 30 days 

 

C. TREATMENT #2:  Routine treatment for cattle in a lot or winter pasture where re-treatment is feasible.

Day 1

            a.         5 ml Oxytetracycline (100 mg/ml)/100 lbs IV

            b.         1 ml Banamine/100 lbs IV

            c.         4 ml Vit. C/100 lbs SC

            d.         2.5 ml ReCovr/100 lbs SC (if breathing is labored)

Day 2

            a.         5 ml Oxytetracycline (100 mg/ml)/100 lbs IV

            b.         Observe animal, if in doubt about response or if the Temp. is over 105.0 the animal should be switched to TREATMENT #3. 

            c.         2.5 ml ReCovr/100 lbs SC (if breathing is labored)

Day 3

            a.         5 ml LA-200/100 lbs IM & SC

            b.         2.5 ml ReCovr/100 lbs SC (if breathing is labored)

            c.         Check body temperature.  Animals that have not responded or that have a Temp. over 105.0 should be switched to TREATMENT #4. 

Day 5  A fourth treatment may be of benefit if animal still seems a bit "off", repeat as on day 3.

Withdrawal -- 30 days 

 

 

D.        TREATMENT #3:  For cattle that have not responded to Treatment #2.

Day 1

            a.         5 ml Oxytetracycline (100 mg/ml)/100 lbs IV

            b.         7 ml Albon  40%/100 lbs IV

            c.         4 ml Vit. C/100 lbs SC

            d.         1 ml Banamine/100 lbs  IV

            e.         2.5 ml ReCovr/100 lbs SC (if breathing is labored)

Day 2

            a.         5 ml Oxytetracycline (100 mg/ml)/100 lbs IV

            b.         4 ml Albon  40%/100 lbs IV

            c.         2.5 ml ReCovr/100 lbs SC (if breathing is labored)

Day 3 

            a.         If animal is responding proceed with the Day 3 treatments.  If still not responding or Temp. is over 104.0 switch to TREATMENT #4

            b.         5 ml LA-200/100 lbs IM & SC

            c.         1 Albon SR 12.5 gm bolus/200 lbs oral

Withdrawal -- 30 days 

 

E.        TREATMENT #4:  Use for animals that don't seem to be responding to TREATMENTS #2 or #3

Day 1

            a.         1 ml Naxcel (50 mg/ml)/100 lbs  IM

            b.         6 ml Penicillin G./100 lbs SC

            c.         1 ml Banamine/100 lbs IV  (consult with veterinarian prior to use)

            d.         4 ml Vit.  C/100 lbs SC

            e.         2.5 ml ReCovr/100 lbs SC (if breathing is labored)

2.         Repeat following treatment for a minimum of 2 more days

            a.         1 ml Naxcel (50 mg/ml)/100 lbs  IM

            b.         6 ml Penicillin G./100 lbs SC

            c.         2.5 ml ReCovr/100 lbs SC (if breathing is labored)

Withdrawal - 45 days 

 

F.         TREATMENT #5: Use when withdrawal time is a concern.  This treatment is especially good for pasture cows that are breathing very hard and may have interstitial pneumonia.  Cull cows with interstitial pneumonia ASAP if the response to treatment is poor.

Day 1

            a.         1 ml Naxcel (50 mg/ml)/100 lbs  IM

            b.         Aspirin bolus 240 gr., 1 bolus/300 lbs oral

            c.         4 ml Vitamin C/100 lbs  SC

            d.         2.5 ml ReCovr/100 lbs SC  (if breathing is labored)

            e.         Lasix  1 ml/100 lbs IM (for animals with extreme difficulty breathing.)

 

Day 2

            a.         1 ml Naxcel (50 mg/ml)/100 lbs  IM

Day 3

            a.         1 ml Naxcel (50 mg/ml)/100 lbs  IM

Withdrawal -- 4 days from last  ReCovr injection

 

 

 

2.         Diphtheria -- "Honkers" - "Wheezers"

 

A.        SYMPTOMS: Temp. 103.0 - 105.0. May be higher on a hot day or if animal is excited.  Roaring or raspy sound when animal inhales and/or exhales

 

B.        TREATMENT #1:

Day  1

            a.         1.5 ml Micotil/100 lbs SC

            b.         4 ml Vit- C/100 lbs SC

            c.         2 ml IBR (MLV)

Withdrawal- 30 days

On cattle where withdrawal time is a concern you may want to try TREATMENT #2

 

C.        TREATMENT #2:

Day 1

            a.         7 ml Albon  40%/100 lbs IV

            b.         4 ml Vit. C/100 lbs SC

Day 2

            a.         4 ml Albon  40%/100 lbs IV

Day 3

            a.         4 ml Albon  40%/100 lbs IV

Withdrawal -- 4 days

 

D.        Cattle experiencing extreme difficulty in breathing may be injected with 1ml Azium (2mg/ml)/100 lbs IM one time.

 

 

3.         Lump Jaw and/or Wooden Tongue

 

A         SYMPTOMS: Swelling on side of or under jaws

 

B.        TREATMENT #1:

Day 1

            a.         5 ml Oxytetracycline 100mg/100 lbs IV (may substitute 2.5 ml LA-200/100 Lbs IV)

            b.         15 ml Sodium Iodide/100 lbs  IV

Day 2

            a.         5 ml Oxytetracycline (100mg/ml)/100 lbs  IV

Day 3

            a.         5 ml Oxytetracycline (100mg/ml)/100 lbs  IV

Withdrawal -- 30 days

 

 

4.         Gas Bloat

 

            A.        SYMPTOMS: Left flank swollen and if bloat is severe animal may have difficulty breathing

 

            B.        TREATMENT:

1.         Reduce bloat with stomach tube or trocar

2.         Administer Therabloat (2 oz)

3.         Chronic bloat -- 15 ml Sodium Iodide/100 lbs  IV

4.         Use 1 ml Naxcel (50 mg/ml)/100 lbs  IM for 3 days on cattle that have been trocarized when withdrawal time is a concern.   Use LA-200 (5 ml/100 lbs IM) on cattle where withdrawal time is not a concern.

 

5.         Foot Rot

 

            A.        SYMPTOMS: Lameness, foot swollen above hoof, toes spread apart

 

            B.        TREATMENT #1 (Use TREATMENT #2 when withdrawal time is a concern):

                        Day 1

                                    a.         5 ml LA-200/100 lbs  IM & SC

                                    b.         1 Albon SR 12.5 Gm bolus/200 lbs

                        Days 2 and 3

                                    a.         Observe cattle and rotate those not responding to TREATMENT #2.

                        Withdrawal -- 30 days

 

            C.        TREATMENT #2:

                        Day 1

                                    a.         7 ml Albon  40%/100 lbs  IV

                                    b.         1 Albon SR 12.5 Gm bolus/200 lbs

                        Withdrawal -- 12 days

 

6.         Abscess

 

A.        SYMPTOMS: Walled off swelling.  When stuck with a needle you can pull pus and/or blood colored fluid into syringe

B.        TREATMENT:

1.         Lance and drain

2.         Flush with Iodine saline solution for 3-4 days (10 ml of 7% iodine mixed in 500 ml saline)

3.         if it continues to drain, pack with gauze that has been soaked in iodine solution.  Leave for 2-3 days, then remove

4.         observe for 3-4 days. if it doesn't dry up pack again with iodine-soaked gauze

 

 

7.  Cellulitis or Phlegmon

 

A.        SYMPTOMS: Generalized swelling under skin, not walled off

 

B.        TREATMENT:

            Day 1

                        a.         5 ml Aqueous Pen G./100 lbs IM & SC

                        b.         15 ml Sodium Iodide/100 lbs IV

                        c.         1 Albon SR 12.5 Gm bolus/200 lbs orally

            Day 2

                        a.         5 ml Aqueous Pen G./100 lbs IM & SC

            Day 3

                        a.         5 ml Aqueous Pen G./100 lbs IM & SC

                        b.         1 Albon SR 12.5 Gm bolus/200 lbs orally

            Day 4

                        a.         Treat as an abscess if becomes walled off

            Withdrawal -- 30 days

 

 

8.         Coccidiosis

 

A.        SYMPTOMS: Scours containing bright red blood or fibrin cast (fibrin is jelly-like material light brown in color)

 

B.        TREATMENT #1:

            Day 1

                        a.         5 ml Aqueous Penicillin G/100 lbs  IM & SC

                        b.         1 Endosorb bolus/200 lbs orally

            Day 2

                        a.         5 ml Aqueous Penicillin G/100 lbs IM & SC

                        b.         1 Endosorb bolus/200 lbs orally

            Day 3

                        a.         5 ml Aqueous Penicillin G/100 lbs IM & SC

                        b.         1 Endosorb bolus/200 lbs orally

            NOTE: If at any time animal goes down or shows central nervous system disorder give 50 ml Ca-Mg-PK/100 lbs  IV SLOWLY and 2 Gms of Thiamin HCL IM

           

Withdrawal -- 30 days

 

9.         Scours

 

A.        SYMPTOMS: Watery diarrhea

 

B.        TREATMENT*

            Day 1

                        a.         5 ml Neomix/100 lbs orally

                        b.         1 ml Naxcel (50 mg/ml)/100 lbs IM

                        c.         1 Endosorb bolus/200 lbs orally

            Day 2

                        a.         5 ml Neomix/100 lbs orally

                        b.         1 ml Naxcel (50 mg/ml)100 lbs IM

                        c.         1 Endosorb bolus/200 lbs orally

            Day 3

                        a.         5 ml Neomix/100 lbs orally

                        b.         1 ml Naxcel (50 mg/ml)/100 lbs IM

                        c.         1 Endosorb bolus/200 lbs orally

            Withdrawal -- 30 days

 

 

10.       Thrombo-Embolic Meningioencephalomyelitis (TEME, Sleeper Syndrome or Brainer).  A septicemia caused by Haemophillus somnus resulting in small blood clots and areas of necrosis (tissue destruction) in the brain and other organs. 

 

A.        SYMPTOMS: Temp. 105.0 - 107.0, staggers, may be irritated and belligerent or depressed.  Will progress to recumbency and coma.  May be blind, have ahead tilt, show respiratory symptoms or have swelling one or more major joints.

 

B.        This disease is fatal if not treated early, prior to an animal becoming recumbent.

 

C.        TREATMENT:

            Day 1  am

                        a.         5 ml Oxytetracycline (100mg/ml)/100 lbs IV

                        b.         1 ml Thiamin HCL 500 mg/100 lbs IV

            Day 1  pm

                        a.         1 ml Thiamin HCL 500 mg/100 lbs IV

                        b.         Can (should) be repeated 3 times the first day at 4 to 6 hour intervals,  as a    minimum try to treat twice with thiamin in the first day.

            Day 2

                        a.         5 ml Oxytetracycline (100mg/ml)/100 lbs IV

                        b.         1 ml Thiamin HCL 500 mg/100 lbs IM or IV

            Day 3

                        a.         5 ml LA-200/100 lbs IM

                        b.         1 ml Thiamin HCL 500 mg/100 lbs IM or IV

            Withdrawal -- 30 days

 

11.       Polioencephalomalacia (Polio or Brainer).  Caused by a thiamin (Vitamin B1) deficiency or by destruction of thiamin in the rumen.  High concentrate rations may inhibit synthesis of thiamin by rumen microorganisms.   Pasture cattle on short gramma grass pasture,  cattle moved from poor dry pasture to lush pasture, cattle on Koshia weed pasture or cattle which undergo a period of feed and/or water deprivation are predisposed.  Watch new arrivals closely for signs of this disease. 

 

A.        SYMPTOMS: Temp. 103.0 - 105.0,  blindness, muscle tremors, un-coordination, irritated and belligerent (acts wild), head pressing, may have the staggers and will progress to paralysis if not treated.

 

B.        TREATMENT:

            1.         Same as TEME since the two are difficult to separate

            2.         As with TEME, treatment must be initiated early in the coarse of the disease to be successful

 

12.       Brisket Disease or High Altitude Disease

 

A.        SYMPTOMS: Brisket swollen, elbows held away from body.  Breathing difficult and animal depressed

B.        TREATMENT:

            1.         Realize as soon as possible

            2.         For cattle showing severe signs use 10 ml Lasix IM

 

 

13.       Pinkeye

 

A.        SYMPTOMS: Eye red or cloudy (white)

 

B.        TREATMENT:

            1.         if no ulcer in eye, inject 1 1/2 ml Penicillin mixed with 1/2 ml Dexamethasone into eyelid or surface of eyeball.  If eye is ulcerated do not use dexamethasone

            2.         put patch over eye if needed

            3.         5 ml LA-200/100 lbs IM & SC,  repeat in 48 hours for severe cases.

 

14.       Acidosis -- Grain overload

A.        SYMPTOMS. Watery diarrhea, many times containing numerous bubbles and undigested grain.  Some cattle may be staggering. Others may be down, unable to rise and have a severely dehydrated appearance

 

B.        TREATMENT:           Cattle that have gone off feed, are showing serious signs or cattle that are recumbent should be pulled to the hospital and treated as follows:

            a.         Mix 8 oz Carmilax with 1/2 gallon of mineral oil and pump into rumen (closely observe for bloat and treat if necessary)

            b.         Administer ReCovr at rate of 2.5 ml/100 lbs IM

            c.         Administer an antibiotic such as 5ml Oxytetracycline 100mg/100 lbs IV or 5 ml Penicillin G/100 lbs IM

            d..        Repeat the ReCovr and antibiotic on days 2 and 3

            e.         Severely affected animals should receive sodium bicarbonate IV, 50 ml of a 1 milliequivalent/ml solution/100 lbs IV

 

 

15.       Anaphylactic Shock

 

A.        SYMPTOMS; Occurs within seconds after vaccination or drug administration. Difficulty breathing, pale mucous membranes, swelling around the eyes, anus and vulva may be present, membranes turn purple. TREATMENT must be immediate.

 

B.        TREATMENT:  0.5ml epinephrine (1:1000 solution)/100 lbs IV. Draw the epinephrine into a 60 ml syringe and fill the rest of the syringe with sterile saline before injecting.  If sterile saline or sterile water is not available, bypass the dilution step and inject the epinephrine without delay.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Neonatal Disorders

 

2.         Viral Scours

 

3.         E. coli Scours

 

4.         Enterotoxemia

 

5.         Pneumonia