With the onset of autumn, the calves often begin to experience respiratory problems as well. Respiratory problems are often seen as coughing calves, fever, runny noses, pumping breathing and sometimes even death. These respiratory complaints not only cause problems for the young calf, but also affect later in life, the chronic damage in the lungs causes a reduced life production as a dairy cow.
Respiratory problems in calves
Respiratory complaints can be caused by bacteria and viruses. This can lead to disease, especially when the infection pressure is high, in combination with a low resistance. To prevent illness, it is important to know which bacteria or virus is causing the problem at your company. By means of a lung lavage (BAL), your vet can make a better diagnosis, after which a targeted approach can be used to reduce the chance of infection with this germ.
First of all, it is essential to know which calves are suitable for an examination. In general, calves that have become acutely ill and have not yet been treated give the best idea of which germs play a role on your farm.
Longspoeling (BAL)
In a lung lavage, a small amount of liquid is injected into the airways of the calf and immediately sucked out again. The fluid contains the germs that cause the respiratory symptoms. A lung lavage is performed by your veterinarian and is a safe method, which causes little inconvenience to the calf. The lung rinses are examined in specialized laboratories for the germs present.
What can I do with the result?
When the result is known, it is important that you discuss it with your vet. The interpretation is not always that simple. The choice of sampled animals and the circumstances on your farm must be taken into account.
Respiratory problems can cause major damage to your young stock, so it is better to prevent these complaints on your farm. Therefore, draw up a plan together with your veterinarian. Visualize all risk factors and choose the right vaccine for your calves based on the diagnostic results. In addition, look at colostrum management, nutrition and housing and adjust them if necessary.
Would you like to know more about what you can do on your farm to better protect your calves? Then you can contact one of our veterinarians without obligation: Jessica Hartjes, 06-3800 8533 (Netherlands), Ruth Meenks (North Netherlands) 06-1370 2817, Sabine Hoogeveen (Western Netherlands and South Netherlands) 06-8279 0165 or Anne- Lynn Geertshuis (East Netherlands), 06-2046 9304.
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