Therapeutic Effect of Fermented Colostrum on Calf Diarrhea Syndrome

Diarrhea in newborn calves under 30 days of age is one of the most significant cause of economic losses and pervasive concern in veterinary industry all around the world and infectious agents are the most commonly detected causes of calf diarrhea. In order to present a useful and convenient method for treatment of calf diarrhea, we evaluate the therapeutic effect of fermented colostrum on calf diarrhea syndrome. Thirty newborn Holstein calves, with diarrhea, were divided randomly in two equal groups (test and control). Both group of calves were received routine treatment protocol in the farm, furthermore calves in test group were fed once daily to 3 days, 300 mL naturally fermented colostrum. Vital signs (heart rate, respiratory rate and rectal temperature) and clinical scores (demeanour, mobility, dehydration, suckle reflex, feed intake (appetite) and stool consistency) were checked in all calves for 4 days. The results of the present study showed that the use of fermented colostrum along with treatment protocols can accelerate the return of fecal consistency and feed intake of calves with diarrhea to normal and relieving dehydration.