Colic in Calves

When a calf presents with abdominal pain, reasons for the colic can be difficult to ascertain. A thorough examination, taking into account the health of the whole herd and as much information as possible about the individual calf, is necessary to decide how to proceed.

Identification

Identifying causes of colic can be difficult.

When a calf looks to have abdominal problems, the veterinarian must make a difficult decision about whether the calf needs surgical intervention or another form of treatment; the calf may have a simple case of colic due to gas and recover on its own, or have an obstruction that needs immediate surgery.

Warning Signs

The health of the herd needs to be considered.

Veterinarians should consider the number of animals that may be presenting with abdominal pain in the calf's herd to help identify the cause of the colic, as well as abdominal distension. They should also look for such signs of abdominal pain as kicking, getting up and down, rolling on the ground and lying in odd positions.

Considerations

A full examination, beyond just the abdomen, is necessary.

A calf's temperature; respiratory rate; heart rate; and in later stages, presence of hypothermia, dehydration and inability to stand need to be carefully considered when making an informed diagnosis; a focus on the abdominal pain alone does not provide enough information for a full diagnosis.

Time Frame

Colic often occurs as a calf's diet changes.

Colic often presents in the first two months of a calf's life, as it is going from a milk-based to a ruminant diet; abdominal pain is common during this time of a calf's life and can be difficult to identify.

Causes

Very young calves may need surgery to solve the serious problem causing their colic.

Common reasons for a very young colicky calf to be in pain include a problem with its colon, creating digestion problems and an inability to create manure; the lack of a developed rectum; or an infection in its abdomen.

References

• Abdominal disease in calves: A diagnostic challenge (Article 2.3)
• Code of Recommendations and Minimum Standards for the Welfare of Bobby Calves
• Abdominal disorders in baby calves: The colicky calf