Your Calves Are Shedding Cocci: The Magnitude of the Problem

Join the Dairy Calf & Heifer Association (DCHA) for its next one-hour webinar set for May 25, at 1:00 p.m. Central time.

 

During this webinar, Gerald Mechor, a distinguished technical consultant at Elanco Animal Health, will discuss the importance of a thorough examination and diagnostic testing to help confirm a positive case of coccidiosis, as well as prevention tips to keep calves healthy during this critical growth stage. Coccidiosis remains a common disease pathogen present on all dairies with the potential to significantly impact calves and heifers.

“Treating for the disease without confirming it’s the cause of symptoms in dairy calves could be a costly mistake,” says Mechor. “Taking appropriate steps to prevent coccidiosis and accurately diagnosing positive cases can save time and money.”

Mechor notes that when diarrhea is present in weaned calves, a quick diagnosis of coccidiosis is often made and treatment begins. But what if it’s the wrong treatment? What if the problem isn’t coccidiosis? While diarrhea is a common symptom of coccidiosis, its occurrence in calves does not always equate to coccidia. Bacteria, viruses, parasitic infections and dietary changes are other common causes of diarrhea in weaned calves.

For the last 25 years, Mechor has worked as a senior dairy technical consultant for Elanco Animal Health. He supported the dairy industry and conducted post-approval research following the approval of Rumensin for use in lactating dairy cows.

Mechor’s research areas include colostrum and neonatal immunity, calfhood diseases and risk factors for disease, especially respiratory disease. He works with industry veterinarians and nutritionists to investigate herd challenges with calf and heifer health.

Earn one Registry of Approved Continuing Education (RACE) credit from the American Association of Veterinary State Boards (AAVSB) for attending the live webinar.

Register Here