EFFECTS OF FLUID INTAKE LEVEL AND DRY MATTER CONCENTRATION ON THE INCIDENCE OF SCOURS IN MILK REPLACER-FED CALVES

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Abstract
Thirty-six Holstein calves were used for this experiment from the 3rd to the 20th day of age. During this time, a commercial milk replacer containing 10% fat and 20% protein was fed at three fluid intake levels: low (L), medium (M) and high (H); and three dietary dry matter (DM) concentrations: dilute (D), normal (N) and concentrated (C). Results showed that calves offered the replacer at intake level H had a greater number of days of loose feces, dull demeanor and moderate or severe dehydration compared to calves receiving L and M treatments. Calves fed the highest DM concentration (C) had a greater number of days when the rectal temperature was greater than 39 C, as compared to calves fed treatment D. A higher incidence of scouring was observed during days 9–14 of age than in days 3–8 or 15–20. All calves lost weight during the trial, the greatest weight losses occurring with calves fed the fluid level L and DM concentration D. It was concluded that level of fluid intake was of greater importance in control of calf scours than was dietary dry matter concentration.

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