Newborn calves need four defenses
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First, prevent suffocation: Newborn yaks can suffocate due to various factors such as small size, narrow birth canal, incorrect fetal position, prolonged labor, or weak uterine contractions. Immediate emergency care is essential. The yak should be lifted and its buttocks tapped to clear mucus and amniotic fluid from the mouth, nose, and airway. Dry the coat thoroughly and administer an intramuscular injection of 0.5% camphor water (5-10 ml) or a combination of 10% sodium hydroxide (2-5 ml). If the calf is still not breathing, artificial respiration is necessary. Lower the head slightly, expand the chest wall, and perform alternating chest compressions. Medications like 5-10 mg of theophylline, 1.5 ml of 25% nikethamide oil solution, or 2 ml of Si Sugon can help stimulate the respiratory center.
Second, prevent omphalitis: This condition occurs when bacteria infect the umbilical cord after birth. Symptoms include pain upon touching the navel, a thick, pencil-like structure under the skin near the umbilicus, and pus with a foul odor. Mild cases may show a red, inflamed navel with some discharge, while severe cases can lead to abscess formation, swelling, fever, loss of appetite, and even sepsis if untreated. Treatment involves cleaning the area, applying penicillin procaine subcutaneously around the navel, and coating it with a mixture of 5% iodine and retort oil. In more serious cases, the pus must be drained, necrotic tissue removed, and antibacterial powders like sulfonamide or nitrofurazone applied before bandaging.
Third, prevent constipation: This condition is common in calves within 24 hours of birth, characterized by restlessness, arching the back, tail movement as if defecating, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, and a rapid pulse. To treat this, soak the calf’s rectum with soapy water to soften the stool, then fill the rectum with 300 ml of vegetable oil or paraffin. Massaging the abdomen or using a warm towel can also help relieve discomfort.
Fourth, prevent diarrhea: Diarrhea is a common and dangerous issue, especially in calves fed artificially. It can impair growth and even cause death in severe cases. For mild cases, use digestive enzymes like protease, lactase, or dietary supplements. Severe cases require anti-diarrheal medications such as sodium nitrate, tannic acid protein, sulfaguanidine, furazolidone, chloramphenicol, or berberine. Dehydration should be addressed with fluids and detoxifying agents like sodium bicarbonate and vitamin C. If the diarrhea is caused by mastitis in the mother cow, treat the cow or switch to healthy milk. Ensure the calf receives enough colostrum for the first four days to boost immunity.