Neonatal Calf Diarrhoea (NCD)

Diarrhoea in calves younger than 4 weeks of age is known as neonatal calf diarrhoea (NCD). It is a leading cause of calf mortality and economic loss in calf producing units.

A number of bacterial and viral pathogens are consistently identified in cases of NCD. Neonatal calves with poor immunity exposed to these pathogens will develop diarrhoea. Vaccination of the pregnant dam ensures that immunity to the responsible pathogens is passed on to the calves via colostrum intake. General calf management also plays an important role.

Economic Consequences of NCD in a calf unit

A common feature of all pathogens is the significant losses they cause in a calf unit.

• Reduced growth and delayed development of affected calves
• Increased veterinary visits and drug costs
• Increased labour costs
• Losses through dead calves

A calf with scours showing tenesmus and severe diarrhoea