My calf can't get up on its own. Why?

[KaylaBrann]

I have a 4 week old Brown Swiss bull calf. He seems to be healthy, drinks all his bottle and electrolytes every day, is eating some grain and hay now. But ever since I got him, when he lays down he struggles to stand up on his own. If I lift him up and get his feet under him hes fine. He runs around his paddock without wobbling or loss of balance. His legs are very long, I don't know if there so long he just can't get them out from under himself to be able to stand on his own of if there is something wrong with him. If anyone has any suggestions or information I would like to hear it.

 

[branguscowgirl]

Kayla where are you located?
If you are from a Selenium deficient area I would highly recommend giving him a shot of Muse or Bose. (Two ways Selenium comes.) Vit A and D shot would not be a bad idea either.
You need to get the Selenium from the vet.

Google White muscle disease.

 

[Nesikep]

What she said Selenium is a common deficiency, and really affects calves.

 

[Lucky_P]

While selenium deficiency would be a common malady - and one you should consider, there are some heritable neurologic conditions that are well known in the Brown Swiss breed...this calf could conceivably be affected. Read the linked article below to see if anything fits.

http://www.brownswissusa.com/Portals/0/ ... mphlet.pdf