The health of calves during their first hours of life, compliance with health protocols, staff management, and disease prevention are all fundamental issues that Huvepharma highlights during Cattle Days events.
In an interview, Dr. Noelia Silva, Dairy Extension Specialist at UC Davis Veterinary Medicine, addressed neonatal care and staff management, while Dr. Sonia Vázquez Flores, Professor Emerita at the Tecnológico de Monterrey in Mexico, analysed the impact of cryptosporidiosis on herd profitability.
The first few hours determine the future of the calf
Silva emphasised that the first 24 hours of life are a critical period for establishing the health of calves. Key areas of focus include:
- hygiene of surfaces, especially those in contact with the animals
- preventing the entry of pathogens including through the nose or mouth
Dr. Silva also pointed out the importance of verifying compliance with health protocols before looking for other causes for health problems. To this end, she considers it necessary to identify conditions that may limit the staff responsible for implementing them, such as a lack of understanding, tools or support.
How cryptosporidiosis affects milk production
Prof. Vázquez explained that cryptosporidium has a high prevalence in dairy herds and is one of the main agents associated with digestive problems in calves during their first weeks of life.
Its effects can extend beyond the neonatal stage and impact the reproductive and productive performance of animals, including reproductive delays, a greater number of inseminations, and the consequences associated with episodes of diarrhoea.
She went on to point out that the impact of the disease can be analysed in three dimensions:
- clinical
- reproductive
- productive
Under certain health and production conditions, economic simulations have estimated a case of cryptosporidiosis to cost around MEX$11,000 (over €500) when the effects are considered up to the first lactation.
With these perspectives, Huvepharma seeks to bring knowledge and tools to the dairy sector, with an emphasis on prevention, health and management of production units.