Newborn calves need four defenses
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First, prevent suffocation: Newborn yaks can experience suffocation due to various factors such as small body size, narrow birth canal, incorrect fetal positioning, prolonged labor, or weak uterine contractions. Immediate action is crucial. The yak should be lifted and its buttocks gently 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 with 2–5 ml. If the calf is not breathing, perform artificial respiration by lowering the head slightly and alternately expanding and compressing the chest. Medications like 5–10 mg of theophylline, 1.5 ml of 25% nikethamide oil solution, or 2 ml of Si Sugon may also be used to 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, and foul-smelling pus. Mild cases show redness, minor discharge, or slight erosion, while severe cases may involve abscess formation, swelling, fever, loss of appetite, and rapid pulse. If untreated, it can lead to sepsis and death. Treatment involves cleaning the area, injecting penicillin procaine subcutaneously around the umbilicus, and applying a mixture of 5% iodine. In advanced cases, drain the pus, remove necrotic tissue, clean with antiseptic, and apply antibacterial powders before bandaging.
Third, prevent constipation: This issue typically affects calves within 24 hours of birth, causing restlessness, arching the back, tail movement as if defecating, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, and a weak pulse. To treat this, soak the anal area with soapy water to soften stool, then administer 300 ml of vegetable oil or paraffin into the rectum. Massaging the abdomen or applying warmth with a towel can also help relieve discomfort.
Fourth, prevent diarrhea: Diarrhea is common in newborn yaks, especially during artificial feeding, and can hinder growth or even be fatal. For mild cases, use digestive enzymes like protease, lactase, or dietary supplements. Severe cases require anti-diarrheal drugs such as sodium nitrate, tannic acid protein, sulfaguanidine, furazolidone, chloramphenicol, or berberine. Dehydration should be addressed with rehydration solutions and detoxifying agents like sodium bicarbonate and vitamin C. If the diarrhea is caused by mastitis in the mother, treat the cow or switch to healthy milk. Ensure the calf receives enough colostrum for the first four days to boost immunity.