Why Do Calves Die Immediately After Birth?

2020-06-06

A common problem faced by most farmers in our country is the death of their calves after birth due to various reasons. This often causes significant losses to farmers. Today, we will discuss why calves die and what preventive measures can be taken in this regard.

Let us now learn why calves die immediately after birth:

1) Due to malnutrition of the cow during pregnancy.

2) If the calf is born prematurely or immature.

3) If colostrum feeding is not started within 15-30 minutes after birth and if sufficient colostrum is not fed within 6 hours, the calf may die.

4) If colostrum is not given timely and in adequate amounts, immunity decreases and the calf may die from white diarrhea (scours).

5) If the calf has congenital problems such as deformities.

6) If the calf suffers from white diarrhea and lacks proper treatment.

7) If the cow has calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium deficiencies during pregnancy.

8) Due to respiratory distress in the calf and lack of proper treatment.

9) If the mucus is not cleared from the calf's nose immediately after birth.

10) If the cow suffers injury during pregnancy.

11) If the cow slips on a slippery floor and the calf gets injured.

12) Calves may also die after birth due to extreme cold or heat.

13) If any complications occur during delivery, the calf may die.

14) If the calf has more than 75% foreign high-yielding breed (Friesian) blood and there are management errors.

Healthy calves, successful farm

What farmers should do:

1) Provide adequate nutritious food to the cow during pregnancy.

2) Ensure sufficient drinking water for pregnant cows.

3) Keep pregnant cows in a separate, safe place and clean the area regularly. Use dry straw to prevent the area from becoming slippery.

4) Arrange a clean and safe place for the cow and calf before birth. Ensure the area is not slippery by using dry straw.

5) Have the cow examined regularly by a veterinarian during pregnancy.

6) Take appropriate measures (blankets or fans) for extreme cold or heat.

7) Carefully clear the mucus from the calf's nose during birth to help it breathe easily.

8) Start feeding colostrum within 15-30 minutes after birth and feed 3-6 liters of milk within 6 hours according to the calf's weight to protect it from white diarrhea.

9) Ensure proper treatment for calves suffering from white diarrhea.

Proper prenatal and delivery preparations can significantly reduce premature calf mortality. Through Surjomukhi Animal Service's advance notification of calving, farmers can take timely precautions to prevent upcoming losses.