Things You'll Need
- Shelter
- Blankets
- Intravenous equipment and fluid
Instructions
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1
Move the calf and its mother to a shed or barn to reduce the negative effects of severe weather. The designated shelter area should be clean and well-drained.
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2
Check for yellow or brown stains on the calf's hair. If the hair is discolored, the calf may have been traumatized at birth. Dry it off with a towel and wrap it in one or several warm blankets.
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3
Determine if the calf is dehydrated. If the animal has a dry, tacky mouth, sunken eyes or cold feet, it may have acidosis, or increased blood acidity. Feed the calf warm fluids containing electrolytes through a feeding tube or intravenously.
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4
Check the calve's protein and selenium levels. If these substances are low, the animal may need selenium injections or a high-protein diet to regain strength.
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5
Consult a veterinarian if the calf has not shown signs of improvement after one day's time, or if you experience trouble completing any of the previous steps.
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6
Relocate the calf and its mother outside as soon as it is able to stand and feed so that it is not exposed to extensive bacteria from feces.
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