Week old calf won't eat

[webercourtney]

Last night we acquired two bottle fed calves. One calf is about a week old the other is two weeks. Both fed great last night and this morning at 1/2gallon each feeding per calf. At noon I fed both calves a medicated feed of 1/2gallon each again. I went out at 5pm and the older calf ate but the younger calf refused. I offered the younger calf the bottle again at 7pm and again refused. His energy seems down but not gone. I pocked at him a couple times and he got up and walked around. His poop was yellow and solid today. Idk if he was over fed or if I need to take him to the vet. Thanks.

 

[Nite Hawk]

first of all check the temperature, and watch the calf very closely for droopiness, fever, "the runs" etc. Maybe scale back the volume of milk a bit and only feed twice a day morning and night. On alot of the dairy farms up here, the calves are fed only twice a day unless they are sick or weak.

 

[cowgirl_jenna]

Yes, as said check temp. If there is a temp. and or coughing there could be a respiratory issue and antibiotics will be needed. If the calf has scours, but not down/extremely weak, I would forgo a feeding of milk and feed a electrolytes pak. Electrolytes will re-hydrate the calf. If the calf is extremely dehydrated, droopy ears, severe/runny scours you may need to have the vet give it a iv to replenish fluids. Taking the temp will be your first step though to see where you stand, good luck and keep us updated!
Jenna

 

[webercourtney]

This morning he took 3 pints and seemed back to normal. Going to watch him pretty close today, I pushed fluids last night and he ate about 1/2 pint of the electrolytes.