How to Save Calves With Salmonella

Calves infected with salmonella need adequate fluid intake and antibiotic treatment, as well as veterinarian care. It is important to promptly begin care of your calves when you first suspect that they have become infected with salmonella. Calves with a salmonella infection that are treated early are more likely to respond better to treatments. Without treatment, calves can get scours or severe diarrhea that can result in death. According to Oregon State University, death can result in 50 percent of calves as a result of scours.

Things You'll Need

  • Electrolyte fluids
  • Fluids (such as milk)
  • IV fluids
  • Antibiotics
  • Lactobacillus or Streptococcus faecium
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Instructions

  1. Hydration

    • 1

      Speak with your veterinarian about formulas specifically designed to help replace lost electrolytes in your calves. Calves who have lost substantial amounts of fluids need to maintain their electrolyte balance to help prevent against dehydration.

    • 2

      Give fluids through a bottle if your calf is having difficulty suckling from its mother. According to Oregon State University, a calf should intake 10 percent of its body weight. The intake of milk should be spread into four to six feedings a day.

    • 3

      Keep your calves pH balance normal. Always give milk and electrolytes to your calves without diluting the fluid (such as diluting with water or mixing electrolytes with milk).

    • 4

      When feeding your calves, give milk to them prior to electrolyte therapy. This will allow any nutrients to be absorbed by your calves. Wait at least 30 minutes after a feeding before you give your calves electrolytes.

    Other Methods

    • 5

      Speak with your veterinarian if fluid methods are not working with your calves. Your calves may need IV therapy when they don't respond to fluid hydration.

    • 6

      Ask your physician if antibiotic treatments may be necessary for your calves. Antibiotics can help rid your calves of diseases.

    • 7

      Have your calves take products including Lactobacillus acidophilus or Streptococcus faecium. These types of bacteria can help the calves guts develop healthy bacteria and resume normal gut function.

    • 8

      Keep your calves in a warm and dry environment. Consider keeping calves that are severely sick in a separate environment until they can be nursed to full recovery.