Vet's warning of disease in calves (From Western Telegraph)

Vet's warning of disease in calves

Pembrokeshire's livestock farmers are urged to maximise hygiene levels during calving as research shows an above average incidence of disease in calves this spring.

According to data compiled by the National Animal Disease Information Service, cases of a condition known as 'joint ill' or 'navel ill' have risen sharply.

The illness, prevalent in calves less than a week old, results from an infected umbilical cord.

NADIS vet Mike Howe explained that if the infection is confined to the navel, the primary sign is a swollen, painful navel that does not dry up. An abscess may develop and the calf may have a high temperature and reduced appetite.

If infection spreads from the navel, or the condition is not treated, further signs will develop as bacteria spread via the bloodstream.

The condition is being monitored by NADIS, the livestock disease monitoring service sponsored by the Milk Development Council, Meat and Livestock Commission, Elanco Animal Health and Intervet.

Mike Howe, who lives near Haverfordwest, recommended early prompt treatment. He also urged farmers to discuss the problem with their own vet. "Isolate the infected animals,'' he said. "Antibiotics and painkillers are effective in most mild cases. Antibiotic treatment should continue until after the signs have disappeared, which can take over a week even in mild cases.'' But severe cases may not recover even with prolonged antibiotic treatment.

For large navel abscesses, veterinary intervention to drain and remove the infected tissue is often necessary.

Prevention is the key to this disease. Ensuring that the cow calves in a clean environment will significantly reduce the risk of joint ill, said Mr Howe. "Proper planning and preparation can prevent the build-up of disease that occurs in too many calving areas,'' he added. Colostrum will also aid prevention.

It is important to ensure that if cattle are born in a clean environment they aren't moved to other pens or contaminated pastures until the navel has dried completely.