Calves, lambs, kids and fawns:
-The season "of birth" for these young ruminants  is "nature designed" to fit in with their feed needs.
Mothers need abundant feed to supply milk to their young. There needs to be adequate feed for her young once they are weaned.  
-Calves, lambs, kids and fawn are all born as "monogastrics" ("nono" = one).. which enables them to digest a milk diet.
 As adults they are RUMINANTS, and digest pasture. (ect..)
 Part of rearing these young ruminants involves introducing them to diet that assists them to become a ruminant. 
Pasture provides all the essential "goodies" for health and growth. It's far less expensive than milk!! 
The first drink: COLOSTRUM.
Colostrum is the milk in the mother's udder/teats immediately after giving birth.  
 -Colostrum  provides, warmth, fluid, heaps of nutrients, and very importantly antibodies.
- A warm colostrum feed  helps to increase the infant's temperature.
-The first drink from mother is an essential part in the bonding with mother process..  
-Perhaps arguably, but this first drink of COLOSTRUM is the most important drink in the animals life.

Colostrum is so important because:  - The Placental structure in cattle, sheep, deer, and goat limit the transfer of immunity.               This is because antibody molecules  are too large to be transferred.      -Mothers colostrum contains antibodies she has manufactured as the result of HER exposure to diseases               in her environment.     -Colostrum needs to be ingested as soon as possible after the young are born;            Newborns have "special cells", to absorb colostrum.       -Within 24 hours after birth these "special cells"  become ordinary cells, and can no longer absorb.     Also: There is a trypsin inhibitor in colostrum which allows the immune globulins to reach the intestines        without destruction. It is presumed that the globulins  pass from the intestine by the lymphatic system to the blood stream. The Amino acids and simple sugars pass from the intestine via the portal vein to the liver.

Farmers sometimes use this antibody transfer by vaccinating cows prior to birth; the antibodies are transferred to the young in her colostrum.
               (This method is frequently used to protect the calf against rotovirus).
Once antibodies are absorbed, they become the newborns immunity till about 7- 8 weeks of age, then their own immunity system takes over               
Newborns should drink: 10% of their body weight in colostrum within 24 hours after birth.
Colostrum is nutritious:
It contains a readily available source of energy:-Fat (much higher than in normal milk)
It contains protein.
It is rich in the fat soluble vitamins A, D and E...  It is suggested that colostrum in the newborn is "fast-tracked" to the intestine.
Colostrum  also has a mild laxative effect, and helps the infant pass meconium, the black faeces the newborn first passes.
Colostrum quality:
Colostrum from a first time mother is adequate, but colostrum from "older mothers" will have more antibodies.  .
  An "older mother" is capable of producing greater quantities of colostrum than a "first- time" mother.*
                    * Each time the new mother is "milked" the quality of  her colostrum decreases.
Animals born prematurely:( Kids, lambs, calves, fawns)
   "Born before due date" newborns are  disadvantaged:
 Their mother's colostrum will be of poorer quality as she has given birth before her colostrum is properly "formed".
Arguably the infants specialised "colostrum absorption cells" will be too immature to function properly.
You can usually buy colostrum from the vets. The colostrum will provide nutriments, but it is unable to provide immunity.
Many farmers freeze QUALITY COLOSTRUM, to be thawed and fed to these disadvantaged premature newborns, so they too can
have a chance of a healthier life.
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________
            *A special note Re: Johnes & CAE +ve mothers, and their colostrum/milk..
                              (-Diseases where mothers colostrum/milk can spread the disease:)   
                    -Don't allow the newborn to suckle its mother:
                    -Thaw out  and feed her newborn from your supply of frozen colostrum.                   
                      CAE:  These websites explain CAE well:
                 http://www.goatworld.com/articles/cae.shtml       http://www.ics.uci.edu/~pazzani/4H/CAE.html
                    Johnes disease:  There is NO cure for it. Its incubation is 2 years or more.
                     You may NOT be aware that the mother has johnes, until you'll notice her pass very watery faeces.
                    You'll notice her  rapid weight loss.  It's often stress that triggers the signs and symptoms in an adult animal. (eg at calving)
                    Her watery faeces, (on the ground!!) and very possibly teats (from splashes of watery faeces) are LADEN with Johnes bacteria.
                          * * Calves up to 6 months of age can become infected with Johnes.  * *
                        Keep ALL calves well away from ANY paddocks  where she has shed her watery faeces. 
                     ___________________________________________________________________________________________________
Helpful hints for freezing surplus colostrum:
-Colostrum can safely be stored in the freezer for a year. 
Colostrum needs careful handling to avoid contamination. (clean equipment, clean hands)
 -The VERY BEST  colostrum is  obtained soon after the dam has given birth.
-Older mothers produce larger amounts of colostrum,  and of the very best quality.
  BUT: If machine milking her.. Its best not to "milk her out" Emptying her  udder may "trigger" milk fever. 
-Incidentally Jerseys, & Ayrshire  have a higher antibody content in their colostrum than Friesians.
- When freezing  colostrum  use small containers.  (plastic bags, or plastic containers.)
It makes thawing faster, and easier.  If you need several litres of colostrum  just thaw out several containers.
-Caution when thawing: The temperature should not go above "blood temperature". Too much heat will damage it.
Some weak calves, may benefit from a small amount of colostrum..(ie enough to get them standing) Once standing these calves can drink from their mothers.
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
 Avoid Navel infections:

   The navel (umbilicus): Once a very vital link between mother and foetus:
       At birth, It's warmth, and dampness can attract all sorts of bugs from the environment. 
       These bugs travel up the umbilicus  and get into the blood system of the the newborn..
        Bacterial invasion  may just cause "navel ill", where the navel cord is noticeably enlarged.
       (It's obvious on touch. The animal is in pain, and there is a purulent odour.)
         Infections that have entered via the navel can cause more serious diseases!!
         This can even include a liver abscess (the liver is a vital major organ of the body)
         Even bladder infections have been known to originate from an infection through the navel **Some infections can be lethal.     
        Another common infection is joint ill, where the bacteria have localized in a joint. This can be hard to treat.
         Its as easy for a newborn to get an infection through the navel, as it is for us humans to catch a cold!!
   Generously spray the entire navel & especially at the "top" with IODINE. 
Farm supply stores sell IODINE in containers with a spay top.  Spaying the iodine enables it to get into little "corners" that other
methods of applications cant reach. Iodine is a handy 1st aid on a farm for stock. It can be applied to lacerations your stock may have..
( As a spray: You can apply it from a safer distance.. especially if the animals wound is sore)
 Joint ill  /  Navel ill  in calves.: http://www.nadis.org.uk/DiseasesCattle/Joint%20ill%20calves/JOINTI.htm 
    Antibiotics are needed to treat joint, and navel ill. (Best see your vet!!)   Antibiotics can be a challenge to the young animal, as they can wipe out bacteria
  vital for the young's digestion.  Spraying the navel is simple, and it can save your animals life.  
 After giving birth:
Mother (cow, sheep, doe) routinely licks the newborn. This helps give it some "get up and go".
  The newborn then makes the first of  numerous attempts to stand.  
   Once it's balance is achieved, the legs move (be it shaky at first!!)
   It then discovers that by moving it's legs .. The very curious part of it's body (the mouth) can get closer to mum.
   Possibly the mother will position herself so that her udder is just in front of her newborns nose.
   She may nudge the infant towards her teats. 
   A warm teat "dangling" in front of the newborns mouth is irresistible.  The sucking reflex kicks in. 
   The newborn then has it's first drink.. and it's colostrum.
   Things don't always go according to plan.
  So it is essential to keep a keen eye on your animals during the "birthing" season:
  It can be chaos when a group of mixed age "mothers" are giving birth at about the same time.!!!!
                                                            Older mothers know the routine of birthing washing and feeding.
Photo: www.diggersvalley.co.nz        Pre-calving cows have been known to feed another cow's calf.
                                                            I've seen cows "lock horns" over the "ownership" of a calf. 
If this is confusing for the cows, (and calves) it's utterly confusing for the farmer.   Sometimes it's difficult to tell if a cow has calved or not.
First timer mothers: (cows, ewe's, heifers, & doe's)
Usually there are very few complications. But occasionally a 1st time mother simply doesn't know what to do!!
If the newborn is unwashed, and just sitting or lying;  There could be merit in giving the newborn a small amount of  thawed, warmed of colostrum.
This will help "kick start" the infant, so it can stand/balance better.
The mother needs a relaxed atmosphere to enable her to "let down" her milk.
If you have a "good relationship" with the mother, and know her to be (in normal circumstances) to be calm:-
Assist the infant to stand and "introduce" it to it's mother. (Try making  the sound of her infant calling out.) Gradually move it towards its mother's udder, and
place it's mouth around a teat.
 Or gently maneuver them both to a yard where you can secure the mother . Perhaps giving her a feed of  hay will help the mother relax.
Cautiously: Place the infants mouth around it's mothers teat.. (The sucking reflex should take over) Try calling out like a calf... "maaa"
 It may pay to position yourself to avoid any kicks from the mother.
This plan may not go perfectly. Keeping the scene as calm as possible is essential. 
     If you need to use an oesophageal feeder.. clean it thoroughly before feeding a newborn calf.
.A word about the let down reflex:
The "Let down" is a reflex which is stimulated by the hormone oxytocin.
Unfortunately if she is frightened, her fear may trigger the release of the hormone adrenaline, which is an antagonist of oxytocin.
If the mother just won't accept her infant, then, hand rearing is another option.                               
Occasionally a newly calved cow may  threaten you.
She does means business..  Approach her only if necessary.. and then with a stick in your hand.
You may have to give her 1 sharp thwack across her nose with that stick in order for the cow to know "who's boss".                                         
            
                       ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
If your planning to machine milk this cow: 
 Before Calving:- Introduce them to the "milking set up". 
Let them stroll at leisure. Let them study and sniff.  Have the exit gate open so they can stroll out also.
The knowledge that there is an "escape route"  will be reassuring  when they're milked for the very 1st time.   
In a herringbone shed situation:
Farmers often position a squirming 1st calver between older and bigger cows.
This wont stop her kicking cups off:
A kick rail running the length of the framework, and set to collect kicks, will minimize her  kicking .
Leg ropes are dangerous!!
Cows have been known to cough and the cups fall off, (and they do it deliberately!!)  Cups need to be properly fitting.
A frightened animal will NOT  let her milk down.  She will make as much mess as possible.
You can turn the  radio on, make calf noises, talk gently to her, and even quietly rub her neck, or give her some hay.
If all methods fail.. talk to the VET.  They sell a  "let down" injection. You'll need a syringe and needle also.
The very frightened cow: Will do anything to escape. This includes jumping.
You've got a dangerous situation here. If you can, get someone to help.
 Her mess will create a very slippery surface, (especially if it's on concrete). Cows aren't designed to do the splits!!, and hooves can easily
skid on this mucky surface. (So can you, so be very very careful).
Restrain her safely in a position where you can milk her has merit in it.
Allow her to adjust to the noises. Tempt her with food if you think this may work.
Cautiously attempt to  handle her teats first as she needs to adjust to the feel of hands, or milking cups on those teats. 
  Administer the "let down" injection, (which will upset her again!!) just prior to putting the cups on.
THE INJECTION is so she can associate being milked out with the comfort of having the pressure relived from her udder.
   This let down drug should NOT be used repeatedly.
 Next milking: Have  the shed environment very relaxed.  Don't give the drug unless you really really have to.
                                                  
 Teaching a calf to suck:
As soon as you realize your calf wont suck work on on teaching it!!
The longer you leave it; the more difficult it is to teach it.. and trust me.. It can be difficult.
There are times when a calf wont suck.. For example: when it is sickly, when it is severely dehydrated for eg.
To teach a calf let it suck your finger. Have its head close to whatever you want the calf to suck.
Extract your finger, and gently move its mouth on to the teat.
If you have a non return valve (as calfaterias do): the calf instantly has a taste of milk when you help it close its mouth around the teat. 
With a group of calves being fed on a calfateria, sometimes a new calf will just copy the other calves.
Teats (the black teats) with tubing and a non return valve encourage sucking, which helps produce saliva. The saliva, helps with digestion.
The easiest way to keep a calf still is by securing it between your legs.                                                    
                                                                                                                            
RESCUING NEWBORNS:  Lambs, Fawns, kids & Calves
Why is it that your young top animals choose the worst possible weather to give birth???
  Your priorities are: 
1.To provide warmth and shelter for the newborn.
2. Enable it to have a good colostrum feed..
A Calf:
In these situations I've wrapped the calf in my coat, and headed for my warm house, or a hay barn near the house.
(With cows often the mother will follow her calf. Make calf noises to encourage her.)
If the mother is easy to approach, I would take the opportunity to quickly try placing the infants mouth around the mothers teat while they're still in the paddock.
If the calf is far too weak to suckle then I feed warmed colostrum using a thoroughly washed oesophageal feeder.
Nestled in amongst straw and covered with a blanket in a shed, the colostrum rapidly works its magic. (or Occasionally calves get to share the warmth of the fireplace in the house, just till they recuperate!!) 
Colostrum IS magic!!! It's amazing how a cold, wet, weak calf can come to life, (and can even stand and walk) after a generous "dose" of colostrum and a sleep in the warmth. There is merit in having the calf bond with the mother. However if this fails it is hand fed..
A  Fawn:
Mothers occasionally do abandon their newborn.
Colostrum of some form or other is very essential in the 24 hours after birth. (Synthetic, or cow colostrum)                            
                                                                                                                         (Photo, a fawn feeder. www.shoof.co.nz 
If bottle feeding your fawn.. be prepared as: Fawns suckle every 2-3 hours in the 1st few days of their life.
Pasteurized GOAT milk is a good substitute for the real thing.
Wipe the fawn over with a damp cloth several times a day: this mimics the actions of its mother. The mother does this to help the fawn void urine and faeces.
Milk feeding usually continues for 12 weeks!! 
Introduce solids at about a week. Let them have access to pasture, and branches from trees that are part of their diet.
As they eat more solids, their rumen will develop, and their need for milk will decline. Have water available for them to drink.
 Shelter is a consideration:
For sleeping, they naturally sleep in a hidden shaded area. Shelter from the cold, the rain and wind is essential, and access
to grass is desirable. Perhaps a temporary yard, e.g.a wide netting wired on to long (as in tall) standards, attached to
a hay barn, or shed.
A note about weaning fawns fed by their mother:
Hind/fawn relationship/bond is a major influence in fawn health.
Fawns fed by their mothers gain weight rapidly. Fawns are frequently weaned prior to the adult mating season. This way the
doe can be of adequate weight (condition score) for her reproductive health, i.e. she will be cycling normally, and ideally will
become pregnant the first time she is mated. Weaning can be done by abruptly separating the mother from offspring
(it upsets both). Other methods used include separating the fawns, but having them in a neighbouring paddock so they
have visual contact through the fence.
A newborn kid.  

Get the kid to shelter and warmth. If it's really cold then give them a warm bath, and then a towel dry them. Keep them in the warmth of your house. Spray its navel with iodine.
Kids are best fed with thawed, warmed goats colostrum from *CAE negative dams.
 Failing that: cow colostrum, or even a pre-packaged colostrum will have to do..
 If the kid is too weak to suck, But has some vigour about it, use a stomach tube.
To return a bathed kid to its mother after a bath, (or for a mother to adopt a kid,) rub the placenta over the kids body.
Hand fed kids initially are fed every 2 or 3 hours, until they can take several ounces. (to 150 mls)
After the colostrum feeds for 24 hours, they go on to a goat milk replacer.
If it is to be a pet goat, then it needs shelter from the cold, the wind, and the rain. Goats will nibble at grass at about a week of age.
If you keep your kid in your garden .. beware that some plants are poisonous to goats.
The kids have hay available to nibble on, and some commercial goat feed. (use one with a coccidiostat) Kids are fed 3 times a day for several weeks, and then onto twice a day feeds. Any alteration to the kids milk/milk mixture must be done gradually.
The kids are weaned at about 8 weeks, depending on their weight. Rearing Sheds are used as goats don't have a padding of fat for warmth. Thanks to: Patricia (Florida) and Judy (Georgia) for their help re goats.
A newborn Lamb:
Contributed by Denise Gavin Pahiatua. New Zealand.
Colostrum, purchased from neighbouring dairy farmers is stored (in small containers) in the deep freeze prior to lambing.To revive weak lambs they are given warmed colostrum to drink.
If lambs are really cold, I give them a bath in the laundry tub, using nice hot water, about the temperature that you would like to have a bath in. After the bath they are towel dried, then dried with a hair drier.
They are placed in a box close to the fire, for the lambs to have a sleep, and let the colostrum "kick in". I often hear them trotting around after a few hours, and I know they're on the mend. The next couple of feeds are cow colostrum, usually two hourly during the day only (not at night) Then they are fed a lamb milk preparation. They do well that way. (Cow milk, and goat milk have a lower fat content than sheep. Use only a sheep milk replacer, and obey the mixing instructions, The mixing temperature is very important to ensure an even distribution of the fats.
If the newborn cant suck:
Newborns need colostrum as soon as possible:
If a newborn cannot suck, it's probably very weak.  
The oesophageal feeder is the next best thing. Milk will go directly into the immature rumen rather than bypassing it.
This does slow the speed of absorption a bit, but it is reassuring that the newborn is receiving colostrum. 
Inserting the tubing: Extend the newborn's head back .. So that its basically "straight down" to its stomach.
Make sure it IS in the stomach, and not in it's windpipe.
The feeder pictured at left is designed for calves. The instructions are on the outside of the container. The photo right is a feeder designed for lambs.
These feeders are usually available from your local vet, or from  farm supplies stores.
Shoof International. (NZ) have a great range of feeders for various species.   www.shoof.co.nz
As soon as you can, give your newborn a drink using a teat and container. Only use the oesophageal feeder in an emergency.

Milk feeds/milk replacers:
When "hand" feeding fawn calves kids or lambs the Fat, Protein, and Lactose content of milk, or milk powder is important.
If available, use a milk replacement designed for your animal.
(Naturally the components of the mothers milk fluctuates according to stage of lactation, and amount of feed available.)
View the table below as an example only. Goat & sheep breeds are not mentioned. The figures have been obtained from different sources..

In their diet:
Carbohydrates: (sugars, lactose) Are needed  to provide energy. They may be utilized immediately or stored for later use.
Fats:  For energy. For the proper functioning of the body.  It supplies "essential" fatty acids.
It serves as the storage substance for the body's extra calories, and helps insulate the body. It is a structural component of cell membranes.
Fat helps in the absorption, and transport through the bloodstream of the fat-soluble vitamins.
Protein:
Proteins are essential for growth and repair. Protein is made up of  amino acids.
They are essential  in many processes in the body.  Unlike carbohydrates and fats they cannot be stored in the body.
Taste: One correspondent had problems getting her lamb to drink.. Turns out; it didn't like the taste!!! 
Giving the lamb the tasty drink she then  swapped the "tasty" drink for the correct formula.  Next drink it happily took the formula.
How to foster a lamb:
The ewe is designed for raising  lambs. Consider fostering. You won't be tied to bottle feeding. Fostering needs to be started as soon after birth as possible. Perhaps you can pen the lamb and would-be mother together to make it easier.
If the lamb is not dried off, rub the lamb in the placenta of the ewes own lamb. A dead lambs skin can be placed over the adoptee's skin so the mother will thinks its her lamb.
If still refusing to let the lamb suckle restrain the mother (in a safe way) where she cannot push the adoptee lamb away.
Tail Docking of lambs:                                                        
If Using rubber rings: You'll need rubber rings, and a "ring applicator".
The stretched rubber ring is stretched over the applicator and moved into position.  These are all available from stores selling necessities for farmers.  The rubber rings can be applied shortly after birth.
The hot iron method can be done when they're older. Choose fine weather for this task.

          Calves. Calves..  Calves... Calves....
Looking for a lost calf?
Like adults, calves turn their backs towards the bad weather.
Often they just keep walking and walking to get away from the weather. Try searching "down wind".
Calves with a contracted tendons.
A calf born with a front foot bent back happens from time to time.
Basically it is because the tendon running up the back of it's foot is too short, and it cant straighten it's fetlock joint.
Why does this happen?
It could be that the  shape of the uterus doesn't allow the foetus to straighten it's leg? Or could it be hereditary?
The leg needs to be encouraged to straighten. Some splint the leg.
But by straightening the leg, then encouraging the calf to weight bare. Then by encouraging the calf to walk and weight bare on the straightened leg .. it will come right. It may take some time.
 Things to consider if planning to "hand rear" a calf.
Do some sums first: 
You could be spending time, and money with very little financial reward (This is particularly so in New Zealand)
Here are a few things to budget for: 
There is the cost of a calf (or calves), Milk, or replacer, Starter pellets /early wean pellets, to budget for.
If it's your 1st time at calf rearing:
You may need feeding equipment. Some hay. You may need to buy saw dust for bedding. Some wire netting, and perhaps some standards.
Calves are cute, and warm and .. and don't stay small for long: Did you plan to farm adult cattle?-
Maybe you could sell your calf when it’s weaned.  Wouldn’t it be nice to sell it to someone as dedicated as you.. But that’s seldom the case.
If your calf is a bull; consider making it a steer while it's still a calf. Steers are easier to manage as adults than bulls.   
What is involved in calf rearing:
Young calves need shelter:
Especially from the wind and the rain, and yet let in plenty of fresh air. Ideally the shelter should be positioned to allow plenty of sunlight.
Their shelter also needs to have adequate space for the calf to move around.
 Hay barns and implement sheds are a popular choice.
Hay barns are often empty at calving time. Implement sheds: Your tractor or quad can easily be parked outside while you rear your calves. These sheds are often positioned to keep the prevailing wind out. If they’re deep enough, the rain won’t get inside.  An area for calves can be partitioned off with wire netting, and  kept in place by standards. (waratah standards are great)
Make sure there is NO lead paint for calves to lick, or sharp areas  where calves can injure themselves.
Calf rearing sheds ect, need to be cleaned before letting a calf into that environment.
Calf huts.. Temporary shelters ect: They need to be able to stay firm in the strongest of winds.  They're not recommended for very young calves. (Very young calves cannot digest grass)  They're great when the calf IS a little older.  It is an advantage if these huts can be moved around the paddock, giving a fresh patch of grass.
Calf covers: They may be OK on a wet day. When the weather is changeable. a warm sunny day will have the calves sweating. 
For your older calves, choose a paddock with shelter trees. When the calf rumen has developed; the rumen digestion provides warmth for the calf.
Flooring (or bedding):
The aim is to keep the flooring (or bedding as clean & dry as possible) 
Sawdust: (from untreated timber!!) Pictured on the left.
The urine drains away nicely, but the sawdust needs to be raked from time to time. It does provide a nice surface for the calf.  
Bark: Choose bark with the smallest of pieces.. But sawdust is preferable. 
Straw: You can’t rake straw over.
               The calf's faeces tend to glue the bits of straw together. Often the straw, & faeces will stick to the side of the calf.    
Calf feeders:
These must be washed frequently.  Bottles and teats are OK when the calf is very young.
Often the purchased feeders (with several teats) have valves on the milk end of the tubing. (non return valve)
This is handy for teaching a calf to drink.. By squeezing the teat you can entice the milk up the tubing. When teaching a calf to feed just close
it's mouth over the teat. Instantly it has milk trickling into its mouth. Calves are often quick to learn.
The black calfateria (photo on the RHS) will feed 12 or so calves. You just need to place it where you need it: ..indoors, or out in the paddock. The "legs" dig into the ground so the calfateria is steady. It can well cope with a group of big sturdy calves.
The feeder (sketched above left) Is designed to hang over railing.
Fresh water:
Calves need fresh water to drink. It really needs to be positioned where it cannot be contaminated by splashes of urine or faeces.
For rumen development:
Early wean / starter pellets : These also need to be positioned in a container away from likely urine and faeces splashes.
There is plenty of choice when it comes to buying "calf pellets" (sometimes called starter pellets)
When your with the calf, entice the calf to eat pellets.  (they enjoy a neck rub also)
Hay:
This can be placed in a loose weave holder, or several straws bundled together with twine. Secure the hay to the wall of it's shelter.
Very little persuasion  is needed to entice calves to nibble on hay.
Calves CAN  easily get   "tummy upsets":
One person only to feed the calves.
This is the ideal situation, because they will rapidly notice if a calf is poorly.  Early treatment of a sick calf is crucial.
Scouring (or diarrhea) is common in some young calves. An ill calf needs to be separated from other calves.
Often if the calf is scouring, fast treatment will get it back to health, and without a diagnosis being established.
Be aware that some some infections are easily transferred to other calves, and also to man. So hands need to be washed after feeding the young calves.
A regular feeding routine:
If the milk is the same warm temperature each day, and the calves are fed twice a day and at the same time each day..
This will help minimize digestive scours, and bloating. (see oesophageal goove.)  (More about "tummy upsets" -scours- further down the page)
Buying  young calves:
 "4 day old calves" is a term New Zealanders use for very young calves on sale at the market.
The markets are usually held once a week: Therefore  a "4 day old calf" could be anything from 4 days to 11days.
By 4 days the calf should have had adequate colostrum from it's mother.
It's bottom should be clean.
The navel will be dry, and the remnant of the cord will be crinkled and dark.
There is merit in buying calves privately from a farmer who has high calf rearing standards. Perhaps you could chat to such a local farmer prior to the calving period, and make arrangements re purchasing.
If buying calves from the market:
Look for a calf that has healthy calf like energy,  a shiny coat, and bright alert eyes.
Buy only calves that have passed your stringent health check.
 Don't Ever:
Buy a calf if it is shivering, or coughing.  Don't buy a calf if it has a navel infection, or it's knees are swollen. Never !! buy if it is scouring.
*Check the  calf  thoroughly:
Look for signs of scouring:
Look for a damp patch in the vicinity of it's anal area, or around it's tail.
Look on the ground, and observe it's faeces.
Never buy a calf if you suspect it is scouring.
     -By buying a sickly calf you're bringing it's bugs home to your place. (who knows what those bugs are) 
Check for signs of a navel infection:
 Using disposable gloves:
 Prod around it's navel area.
You are looking for a swelling, heat, and if it responds as though it has pain in that area.
 Check your gloves for moistness, and a purulent smell.  Don't buy it if it has any infections.
 Look for any swelling in it's joints (usually it's knees) If the calf has joint ill, the symptoms may NOT show up till it is 2 weeks old, or more.

Look at its hooves:
If the edges have a chewed off look, and perhaps its skin looks loose, this is a clue that the calf was born prematurely. (Macrocarpa can cause this)
A premature calf may not have the benefits of antibodies in it's mothers colostrum.
It may not have the immunity of a full term calf, and a new environment can be a great challenge for it.
Its smaller size means it will take lots of feed to catch up on its ideal weight.
If it's skin looks too baggy for it's body, It's a premature calf... leave it.
Keep a new calf separate from your  group of calves (just for several days) so you can check on it's health.
Give is a drink of electrolytes (the first aid recipe below will do fine) when it arrives at your place.
(A different and strange  environment for your calf.  A new routine.
A perhaps frightened calf. Giving milk to an upset calf may just cause a digestive upset.)
  Some tips on Managing Calves:
Transporting calves:
Be gentle with them. They need shelter from wind and rain. In a trailer they need shelter from the breeze as you drive.
Have a non -skid surface for them to stand on. Do drive carefully.
Several times we transported 2 very young calves in the back seat of our car. (A 20 minutes journey.)
Each calf was placed in the plastic lining from a pellet bag, with their heads exposed. 
The plastic lining bag caught any urine, or faeces. My 2 sons had a calf each to hold.. The calves got their necks rubbed, and were cuddled by my kids.
When the new calves get home:
Their new home: It's a new, and strange environment for them. Perhaps they've very recently been removed from their mothers.
Calves can be stressed from travelling.
Feeding calves is best done regularly, and with warm milk..(and ideally by one person, so they can check on the calf's health.) 
In a "calf familiar with feeding": the oesophageal groove closes by reflex, and milk is directed to the abomasum.
Even though your new calf appears calm.. (there is NO guarantee that this reflex will occur.)
 It's best to introduce yourself, feeding, the environment by giving a warm drink of electrolytes. (thus reducing the likelihood of tummy upsets)
The "first aid" electrolyte recipe is OK for this: 1 teaspoon of salt. 1 teaspoon of soda bicarbonate, 2 teaspoons of glucose  dissolved in 1 ½   – 2 litres of warm water..
Lifting weighty calves:
As they grow bigger, they become quite weighty. It is important that you take care of your back.
Bend your knees and let your thighs (NOT YOUR BACK) take all the weight as you lift.
Or avoid lifting: Where the calf's head goes the rest of the body follows!!  If transferring calves on to a trailer. Place the calf's front legs on the trailer, then push the calf. Enzymes, Probiotics, Prebiotics, Inoculants, Modulators, plus  
 There are several preparations available on the market for young pre-ruminants.
Some help in milk digestion. Others help with the calf's essential intestinal bacteria flora.
Some are added to milk, others are given as a dose.
I have used one such product, and was absolutely delighted with the results.
The calves gained weight so well. Not one calf developed scouring.
Furthermore they maintained their weight advantage.
These products are available from the farm supplies retailers, or your vets.
* *They may be sold in larger containers making them expensive if just rearing a few animals. 
The Vets may be willing to sell smaller quantities, or you may be able to buy what you need  from a local farmer / user / rearer.
Acidophilus yoghurt: Is a prebiotic. Some farmers give acidophilus yoghurt to calves when their calves are stressed.
It adds "helpful" intestinal bacteria, and  treats the overpopulation of unhelpful/bad bacteria in the intestines.
http://www.domhealth.co.nz/pages/Livestock/livestock.htm  (see d-scour paste & Protexin
http://www.bell-booth.co.nz/product_info.php?cPath=2&products_id=2 
Further reading:
http://www.country-wide.co.nz/article/5521.html  
http://www.donaghys.com/probiotics0.html  (see procalf)
http://www.biostart.co.nz/PDF/calf_headstart_brochure.pdf 
http://www.calfcare.co.nz/wa.asp?idWebPage=8064
http://www.pharmazen.co.nz/products.html  see prozen
..A diet for a calf...
These healthy weaned young stock are out on pasture..
If you can grow pasture well, it's the cheapest  way of feeding cattle.
A calf's diet needs to provide nutrients for growth, and health, and to develop the rumen.
          The Cost, and time involved, may influence your choice of rearing methods.
Feeding milk, or purchased milk powder:
This supplies the newborn with the required fat, protein, and lactose (sugar)
Feed = about 10% of the calf body weight. 
35kg calf = 3.5 litres.    or  45kg calf = 4.5 litres a day ect.
As young animal cannot drink such a large amount so  feeds are given 1/2 the total in the morning, and 1/2 in the evening.
Temperature:  about "blood heat".
Routine is essential.. feed the calves at the same time each day.
If one person only is "in charge" of feeding the calves, then any sick will be quickly noticed. (and isolated and treated)
Calves also need:
Fresh water:  Perhaps a fresh bucketful each day.. positioned away from splashes of urine.
Some form of "early wean " /"starter" pellets. (it's a good idea to choose pellets with an added coccidiostat.  
Some hay for the calves to nibble on.   (Perhaps stems tied in a bunch and attached to the wall of the shed.)
At about 2-3 weeks milk fed calves can be spend most of the day in the paddock.
 When releasing a group of calves to a paddock ... have your camera ready..
With tails high: They sprint, change direction, sprint again. (The bigger the paddock,
the more sprinting they'll do.)
Alas, they'll quickly learn about fences.. I cant think of anyway of teaching them other than letting them crash into a fence or two. If the fence has an electric fence; They learn about them also.
However..Calves really enjoy their sprint, and their day out in the fresh air and sunlight. 
Once outdoors, and nibbling on pasture the calves can then be fed once a day.  It doesn't matter if calves are fed in the morning, or the evening.
 Quality hay, & early wean/starter pellets.
The early wean or starter pellets (that are offered to milk reared calves) are designed to help develop the calf's rumen.
The taste, and ease of eating will entice a calf to eat the pellets. ( Sometimes they may need to be hand fed to the calf just to get it started) Hay, even leafy hay, it is not as nutritious as pellets. But it does play a part in rumen development.
.   Helpful calf & lamb rearing websites:
 Ngahiwi farms:  http://www.ngahiwifarms.co.nz/    
Calf Rearing Profit Calculator  http://www.agrifax.co.nz/calculators/rpc.cfm
NRM website: http://www.nrm.co.nz/View.asp?InfoID=242  
Click on products, animal health, articles  or nutrition.
Harvey farms: http://www.harveyfarms.co.nz  
NZAgbiz Ltd:  Booklets are available re calf rearing and lamb feeding from RD1.
For product info 0800 809 011

When a milk fed (pre-ruminant / monogastric) drinks:
The food is taken into the mouth, and after swallowing it is transferred to the oesophagus.
Food moves along the oesophagus, and intestines in muscular waves called peristalsis. (Identical in humans) The stomach in adult cattle is divided into 4. The milk drinking newborn is really a monogastric (like us) and milk digestion takes part in the "4th" part of the stomach: The abomasum (or true stomach).

The Oesophageal Groove:
Milk passes by the rumen by the closing of the oesophageal groove. This closing sends the milk into the abomasum.
When the calf is familiar with milk feeding routines the oesophageal groove closes by a reflex when the arrival of its milk stimulates it to close.  This reflex wont function properly in some situations:
A newly purchased calf . The surroundings are very different, and this upsets the normal reflex. These calves will benefit from not being fed milk immediately. Some farmers give them a warm feed of an electrolytes when the first arrive at their "new home".

The Abomasum:
Rennin,(an enzyme) and the acidity of the abomasum help the milk form a clot in the abomasum. The protein component in the clot solidifies, then contracts. A liquid is squeezed out which then passes down to the intestines. The clot in the abomasum is then slowly digested by the enzymes pepsin and lipase. Remains from this digestion become part of the next milk clot. In the small intestines which are alkaline, the liquid from the solid clot is further digested, by enzymes from the pancreas, intestines, and gall bladder.
   RUMEN  DEVELOPMENT:

Ruminant digestion is/was nature's way of protecting cattle, deer, sheep, and goats.  Once, all animals of prey, these animals would graze hungrily in exposed dangerous areas, and then retreat to safety for digestion and relaxation. The digestion in the rumen actually provides warmth for the animal. The rumen is basically a huge fermenting vat. A microbial population (bacteria and protozoa) digests (or more correctly ferments) the feeds eaten by the animal. The inside of the rumen wall has millions of tiny "finger like" projections called papillae. These papillae act to increase the surface area of the rumen, thus giving the rumen maximum contact with its contents. Rumen development results from Volatile Fatty Acids (VFA) in the rumen. For good digestion a good blood supply to the rumen papillae is needed.

The Essentials for rumen development are:                                 
A population of bacteria in the rumen:
Bacteria start "arriving" in the rumen shortly birth.
The mother may inoculate her offspring with useful digestive bacteria with nose to nose, or mouth contact with

her young.  Useful bacteria however occur as the result of the calf eating dry feed.

True ruminant bacteria can be found about 14 days after calves start eating "early wean", or "starter"

pellets, or meal. The rumen micro organism's change ingested carbohydrates into Volatile Fatty Acids (VFA),

acetate, propionate, and butyrate. Propionate and butyrate are the two VFA's responsible for the rumens

development. Rumen VFA's are absorbed from the rumen. The feed eaten affects the types of rumen micro

organisms active in the rumen. E.g. calves fed early wean pellets will establish a different bacteria from those

fed mainly hay.
Liquid in the rumen:
Rumen bacteria need a warm watery environment. Encourage the young calf to start drinking water from day 1.
Have fresh clean water on offer. This is more so important when calves are eating a lot of pellets, or meal as these feeds do not contain any water.
Ability of the papillae to absorb:
At birth these papillae are small, and they don't function. Rumen development is dependant on papillae growth and absorption. The end products of fermentation (mainly VFA) are absorbed into the rumen epithelium and are transported into the animal's blood.
Hay and forage are needed: To maintain a healthy epithelium in the rumen and to help with growth of the rumen muscular layer. With too much Volitile
Fatty Acids,(VFA) in the diet, the papillae can grow excessively. This results in the coming together of the papillae and a reduction of the rumen surface area for absorption. Some abrasive feed is beneficial as it reduces the formation of keratin. Keratin formation can reduce VFA absorption.
Hay, which is very palatable, and has a poorer nutritional value that high protein pellets, should
not be eaten at the expense of these feeds if you are choosing an "early wean" method of rearing young stock.
Muscular Activity of the Rumen:
The rumen's outer layer is muscle. At birth there is virtually no muscular activity.
The rumen in an adult must contract, squeeze, and regurgitate.
The muscle activity in the rumen increases as the rumen develops.
The commencement of muscle activity is influenced by the feed eaten, e.g. in calves fed milk, hay,
and early wean pellets from an early age, the rumen contractions can be detected about 14 days later.
Hay and forage is important for the development of the rumen muscle layer, (and the epithelium)
The aim in calf rearing is:  to rapidly develop the rumen.
This reduces the calf's  need for milk.. A great expense in calf rearing.
The calf is less likely to suffer from scouring.. or digestive upsets
This website has a photo of the rumen: http://www.das.psu.edu/dairynutrition/calves/rumen/
With right management- Cost of calf raising can be decreased: http://www.milkproductsinc.com/html/frontlineNewsletter/Newsletter/T001.19%20Feed%20&%20Management%20Important%20to%20Optimize%20Rumen%20Devel.pdf 
 Lots of information abut calf rearing on this site:
http://www.calfnotes.com/CNstarters.htm   http://www.calfnotes.com/pdffiles/CN020.pdf

CALF REARING METHODS:
Nurse Cows: These calves usually do very well. They copy their mothers and eat grass, drink water, and nibble hay. The paddocks need shelter. This is a low labour way to rear calves.
Keep an eye on calves for:
Weight gain. If the mother is a beef breed, a calf rapidly gaining weight means that the mother is ideal to breed from next season. Poor weight gain, means the mother cant provide the milk.
This will most probably happen next season also. (Think about reserving a space for her on "the truck".)
Observe the calves calf for signs of scouring. Observe the mothers udder for mastitis.
Because of minimal human contact, they may be wary of humans as calves get older .
Using a Dairy breed cow as a nurse cow.
These mothers have plenty of milk, in fact too much milk for just the one calf (add one or two foster calves)
Because she is required to feed these growing calves, she MUST have plenty to eat.
Keep an eye on "mother" and calves:
Watch her condition. She must  Don't allow her to get scrawny. She needs some condition to help her start in oestrus again.
Watch her for signs of oestrus.
Observe the calves for scouring..
When the calves are bigger try separating her from the calves during the day, and allow her to graze in peace.
This also allows the calves to graze. They will drink less from "mother", and it will help their rumen develop. They can be returned to "mother" during the evening.
Rearing a group of calves:
Keep the equipment clean.
Give all calves the same opportunity to drink. Divide them in groups according to their size, or age (maturity/ experience!!)
If milk feeding through to weaning, consider using some form of additive to the milk. (available from vets, farm supplies stores)
Calfateria fed calves:
By using a "Calfateria" you can feed many calves at once.  (Calfateria's are available in all sizes and shapes!!)
  Picture: This calfateria is towed out to the calves by a quad bike. This one feeds about 24 calves.
There are many smaller calfaterias available, and even some larger ones available.
   These black teats, and non return valves make the calf suck, and this helps  the calf produce saliva. 
 Calfaterias need to be cleaned out each time after use.
Ad Lib feeding:
All you need is one large milk filled container and just a few teats. This way the calves can drink whenever they wish.
You'll need to:
Make sure calves are at ease with the teats and drinking from the container.
You'll need to keep the milk topped up.
The equipment needs to be kept clean.
They can have hay to nibble on, plus plenty of fresh clean water.
But the calves DO grow well.  Give them the opportunity to get out in the paddock as soon as you can. 
Follow the mixing instructions strictly for milk powders. This includes the temperature. Don't dilute milk powders, or milk, because this interferes with the essential clot formation. "Offer", and encourage them to eat early wean pellets,
"Early wean high protein pellet/meal reared calves":
If this is the first time for rearing your calves this way, seek the advise of a farmer who has successfully reared calves this way.
(Calf fatalities have occurred due to the rearer "presuming", or having little knowledge of nutritional requirements, and pre ruminants adaptation to new feeds.)
There are many high nutriment feeds available on the market.  www.ngahiwifarm.co.nz
The aims of this method:
 Are for calves to receive their nutritional requirements in pellet form, which means milk feed is restricted at sometime during their rearing.
There are variations of this method of calf rearing:
Either allowing them to ad lib feed milk for about 4 weeks, while promoting tasty early wean pellets,(this encourages in the rumen a population of essential digestive microflora,) Milk feeds are discontinued and calves are then fed only the high protein pellets.
Or:
Eating pellets is really pushed, and their milk intake is restricted.
Feeding the pellets can continue till the calves are 10 or 12 weeks old..
Hay:
When using high nutritional pellets, the priority is for the calf to eat the pellets. Hay/or straw is essential for  papillae, and rumen muscle health, in the development of the rumen. Calves enjoy hay. There is a danger that calves and may feed too well on hay at the expense of the more nutritional dry feed.
Some say "feed some hay", others suggest delaying its introduction till calves are 4,or 6,or 7 weeks old!!
High protein pellet feeds may continue till the calves are 10 or 12 weeks old. Sheds with running water are essential. The pellets are dry, so calves require lots (and lots) of clean water. Position the container to avoid urine splashes.

How to foster a calf:
This works  quickest on a newly calved cow.
Smell: Wipe the placenta of a new calf over the calf you want adopted.
If a little older: Confuse her sense of smell with a perfume. Put a dab near her nostrils. (hairspray, aftershave, perfume) Put some on the calf also.
Keep them all very close together in a yard perhaps. Attempt to get the calf feeding from the foster mum. Reapply the scent if necessary.
I've known farmers to squirt iodine around her perineum on a cow who has calved quite recently. It should give the cow a stinging sensation, and fool her into thinking about a calf. (I'm really not sure if is helpful or not.)
Shoof International:  ( www.shoof.co.nz)  Sells 2 collars that are linked. The idea is that the when her own calf drinks, so
will the foster calf.    (I haven't seen this method work.. )
An awful lot depends on the cows mothering "feelings".
I've seen a cow with 4 calves feeding from her. (3 who had temporarily left their own mothers) and there were 2 calves waiting to get a teat!!!
We separated Mum from all calves but her own. Clearly she was bellowing out to all calves who could hear her to "have a suckle!!"
I've also known a cow to push the second twin away.
Ive witnessed mother duck walking with 10 young ducklings (in such a straight line) behind her.. and a cow.. an intelligent animal, has trouble with one calf.

WEANING milk fed CALVES:
Milk fed calves are fed milk twice a day till they are about a month old. During the first month they are encouraged to eat "starter"/"early wean" pellets, nibble
on some hay, and drink water.  (Pellets, hay and water all help in developing their rumen.)
At about 3 weeks of age.. on sunny days calves can spend the days in the paddock, where they'll nibble on grass.
At about 1 month old, they can spend most of their time in the paddock.. They can then have their total milk feed in the one feed.
(It doesn't matter if they are fed in the morning, or evening.)  Ideally the calf paddock should provide shelter for them..
Calves are about 2 months old when weaned, but they need to be a good weight for their breed.
Jersey calves: = 80Kg's.
Jersey Friesian cross: = 90 Kg's
Friesian: = 100kgs.
You must be satisfied that they have achieved adequate rumen development.
Coming up to weaning, you'll notice that their faeces colour changes to a dark green, and they'll chomp away at their cud.
Weaning is a major change for the calves:
They'll complain for the next 24 hours!!
Some farmers try reducing their milk prior to the day of weaning. This makes NO difference. DON'T ever water their milk down.
Do choose a fine day for weaning.
From weaning on, they are ruminants. They will gorge, regurgitate, chew their cuds, and then swallow again. They need plenty of water.
They will need protection from parasites in pasture:  http://2farm.co.nz/preventable-diseases.html
Try to avoid moving them from their calf shed/shelters the same day you choose to wean them.
Weaned ruminants need plenty of feed:
The rumen grows as the animal grows. The rumen in a calf can be considered fully developed at about 6 to 9 months of age.
In a fresh leafy paddock calves are actually very selective in what they eat. They are growing, so they need plenty to eat.
Calves are really ideal for the 1st rotation in a new grass paddock.
Dehorning/disbudding:
Calves are done when they're still milk fed. Kids are usually disbudded at about a week old.
You can employ a contractor or a vet to do this  The vets have a method where the calf is given a relaxant, prior to disbudding.
Docking Lambs:
This needs to be done when the lamb is very young. It can be removed with a rubber ring, or an electric or gas heated docker. Leave sufficient length on the tail to cover the anal area (ram) and vulva (ewe). Castrating should be done at a very early age (rubber rings).
 SCOURS !!   scours!    = calf diarrhoea
 If ONE person only feeds the calves ..  then they easily notice a  change in a calf's health.
-The sooner treatment is started, the better the calf's chances are of survival.. (and calves can die from scours!)
Diseases can spread from one calf to another, and some can spread to humans.
Isolate  sick calves from healthy calves..
You'll need to keep young children away from sick calves. Wash your hands thoroughly after being with a sick calf.
If you need to use an esophageal feeder: This needs to be thoroughly washed before and after use.
I'll deal with the different types of infectious scours (and other diseases) at the end of this page..
 If you notice a calf passing watery faeces (stools, diarrhoea, "the squirts!!")
Your  fast action can get them back on the  track to  GOOD health..
 When scouring: They're rapidly loosing very essential electrolytes and fluid... their health can rapidly deteriorate.
In the early stages a scouring calf will take fluids from a teat. However..when their condition deteriorates they become too sickly to suck!! 
Scouring calves urgently need the extra fluids, and electrolytes.   (If there is an outbreak of scours in the group of calves you're rearing: perhaps you could chat
 to your vet. They may ask you to collect faeces samples for laboratory examination.)
FIRST  AID  ELECTROLYTE  RECIPE:
You can continue to feed the calf it's milk drink. 
The vets & farm supply stores sell "scour mixtures/medicines" "electrolyte mixtures" ect .. which are more "tailor made" for scours than this basic recipe..
I'd recommend: Use this recipe as  "first aid" until you are near a "store" selling a "tailor made" electrolyte mixture .

1 teaspoon of salt.
1 teaspoon of soda bicarbonate
2 teaspoons of glucose.
     a "pinch" of KCL (potassium chloride)-available from the chemist-
Add these, and dissolve into  1 1/2  - 2 litres of  "body temperature" water.
Don't skimp - rehydration is crucial. You can give the calf  several feeds of the 1st aid electrolyte mixture during the day.
-Just allow several hours to pass after the calf has had its milk feed.. So not to interfere with the digestion of its milk.
-You cant overdose the calf, because the calf  will urinate what it doesn't need.
-Don't use antibiotics, unless the vet suggests it.
The digestive system has lots of good & essential bacteria in it.. Antibiotics may wipe out some good bacteria.
Digestive /nutritional scours:  (caused by poor milk clot  formation)
* * Calves with nutritional scours do not have a high temperature.* *
If the milk clot formed in the abomasum is poor, a lot of milk will pass into the small intestine. Bacterial fermentation can then occur, and this can cause scouring.
It could be that the oesophageal groove is not closing:
Oesophagel groove closure is a reflex action: Irregular feeding times, a stressed, nervous calf, a calf in new surroundings, and even cool milk can upset this reflex.
Milk Substitute: Check that it  is fed at incorrect strength: If it is too diluted a clot will not form.
The abomasum may be inflamed.
Overfeeding:  Can lead to improperly digested food passing into the intestine.
The milk is acidified by partial digestion, and this does help reduce the bacterial growth. This does happen frequently.
Dehydration:
It is caused  by the loss of body fluids, and electrolytes. These are excreted when the calf is scouring.  
It IS very serious.. giving extra fluids & electrolytes as soon as you notice a calf scouring usually rapidly reverses the situation..
With continued  electrolyte and fluids loss (without replacing them orally)
In summary:
The blood  thickens. The heart muscle, and skeletal muscles are affected.. It is more difficult for the heart to pump blood.
Urinary output drops or stops. (it appears clear or a yellowy colour in a healthy well hydrated calf)
Blood circulation becomes poor.
It's temperature drops, (it feels cold) and shock develops, and the heart may stop.
Fluid and electrolyte replacement is crucial.. If the calf's health has deteriorated, it may be too sickly to suck.
If the calf is too sickly to suck, fluids then may be given by an oesophageal feeder.
If it is very ill.. ask the vet.
The vet may sum up it's prognosis, and may or may not give fluids and electrolytes intravenously.
Acidophilus yoghurt:
This has been a popular treatment for "tummy upsets" for humans (young and old), and young animals for years.
 ~You can give it to your calves when they are healthy.~  
Its recommended for recuperating calves.
Some farmers give acidophilus yoghurt to calves when their calves are stressed.
It adds "helpful" intestinal bacteria, and  treats the overpopulation of unhelpful/bad bacteria in the intestines.
It has known to be helpful in treating rotovirus.
It may enhance the immune response.
                     ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
                              Scours caused by Infections:
Websites about calf scours:
http://www.oakeyvet.com.au/Templates/StoryTemplate_Process.cfm?Story_No=1772&section=answers&specie=beef
www.calfnotes.com/pdffiles/CN021.pdf -
www.calfnotes.com/pdffiles/CN043.pdf
http://www.vetmed.wsu.edu/courses-jmgay/VMADCalfScours.htm  
http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/livestock/dairy/facts/electrol.htm  
http://www.vetmed.ucdavis.edu/vetext/INF-BE_cca/INF-BE_cca01/INF- BE_cca0102.html
Ecoli. (Escherichia coli)
http://www.cattletoday.com/archive/2005/April/CT385.shtml 
Rotavirus:
http://www.cattletoday.com/archive/2005/April/CT385.shtml
Cryptosporidium & Cryptosporidiosis
*This parasite is found in many mammals: incl lambs, calves, kids and humans. 
Cryptosporidiosis is usually seen in calves between one and two weeks of age, and rarely in animals older than 4 weeks.
At 4 weeks most young animals will have some immunity. Cleanliness is essential in preventing this disease.:
Have calf rearing sheds thoroughly clean (commercial products are available) prior to allowing calves to use them.
Calf water supply should be out of the way of splashes.
Promptly isolate any sick calves. (Keep young children away from sick calves) Strict hand washing (or use a commercial hand cleaner) after handling a sick calf.
www.thedairysite.com/diseaseinfo/209/cryptosporidiosis - 
www.calfnotes.com/pdffiles/CN012.pdf  
http://www.addl.purdue.edu/newsletters/2006/Summer/cparvumhtm.htm 
Coronavirus: Scouring may occur in calves over 5 days old.
http://www.cattletoday.com/archive/2005/April/CT385.shtml
Coccidiosis in calves:
http://www.nadis.org.uk/DiseasesCattle/Coccidiosis/COCCID_1.HTM
and: http://www.thecattlesite.com/news/22040/calf-scours-prevention-is-the-best-cure
http://www.xlvets.co.uk/pdf%20files/Cumberland%20News%20Calf%20Scour%20Sept%202006.pdf
Salmonella:
This affects calves between 3 and 6 weeks of age. The scours are copious, and yellow, and sometimes bloody. It is often foul smelling, and worse, faeces, urine, nasal secretions, and saliva can be full of the salmonella bugs. Salmonella can survive in the environment for months. (It can be killed by direct sunlight) The calf can get extremely ill. Many calves die from Salmonella. While you remove the very sick calf from its group, then scrub your hands, boots, and change your clothes, think about your choices. Talk to your vet. Salmonella in calves is frequently fatal. Salmonella can spread to man. Calves that do recuperate unfortunately will often shed salmonella bugs in their faeces.
                                   ___________________________________________________________

 Whey:
 Whey can be used to treat scouring newborns. It is the watery liquid that separates from the curds in cheese making. Whey contains alpha-Lactalbumin, beta-Lactoglobulin. Plus amino acids. (Whey may be available in health shops, as it is often used by athletes.)
Apple cider vinegar:
(I've never used it) It apparently contains pectin, and therefore a useful aid for treating diarrhoea. It also contains lactic acid.
 The acidity inhibits the growth of 'bugs'. It is said to contain potassium.
Rennet:
This is naturally in the calf gut. (Rennet is added to warm milk to make junket, and is available in the supermarket)
 It's use  has been recommended for nutritional scours.  see www.renconz.com   
Kaolin and Pectin:
Separately, or combined. It is believed to attract the bacteria causing diarrhoea, and hold it.
Antibodies and Immunity:
Antibodies are large protein molecules which the animal produces to make any invading bacteria or viruses ineffective.
There is a particular antibody for each specific invading agent.
Antibodies are acquired by the animal producing the antibody following exposure to the invading foreign agent (antigen) some time previously.
Antibody information is then stored ready to produce antibodies if the antigen invades again. (This describes active immunity, and this is the way the
newborns mother has achieved her immunity. She "puts these antibodies into her colostrum'') The newborn receives the antibodies by "Passive Immunity".
Frequently the first exposure to an antigen may be by vaccination.
Basically a very very mild dose of the antigen is "given". Animals (and man) respond by producing antibodies specific to the antigen. . The antibodies produced, will be activated only if the "body" is invaded by that specific antigens in future years.

Navel ill:
Infected navels may be noticed in the calves first week. The navel area feels enlarged and painful. There may be a purulent smell, and on investigation the area is damp. In a more advanced state the calf may look very uncomfortable and appear unwell. To treat: Give antibiotic injections for several days. Treat the infected navel with disinfectants… Prevention of this disease makes sense.. Spray the navel with iodine as soon as you can after birth. Iodine will kill off any bugs, and help to dry the area. Provide clean bedding for calves.
Joint ill:
This is caused by the infection entering the infant's navel. Any bugs picked up by the navel will be transferred to the liver, then distributed around the body in the blood stream. (Sadly more so in colostrum deficient animals!!) Frequently these bugs congregate in the animals joints. Signs and symptoms of an infection appear at
about 2 to 4 weeks of age. Generally infected calves are lethargic, have an elevated temperature. They hesitate to move. A joint, or joints (mainly knee joints) will
become swollen, and hot. To Treat: Act as soon as you notice they signs and symptoms. A long course of antibiotics may help.
But really for your animal's sake the best idea is to get help from your Vet.
Joint ill  /  Navel  ill   in calves.:  http://www.nadis.org.uk/DiseasesCattle/Joint%20ill%20calves/JOINTI.htm  
Pneumonia:
Usually pre weaned calves will have some immunity obtained from colostrum. A "runny eye" may be the first sign.
This is a clear fluid discharge, and it leaves a damp mark on the calf face. A cough becomes noticeable: A chesty cough. Their breathing may quicken, Some sicker animals appear to have difficulty inhaling sufficient air, as they arch their backs, and have their heads down. These calves will have lost their appetite, and will possibly stand away from the group. They may have a raging temperature, and will be quite sweaty.
Pneumonia in calves: http://www.ukvet.co.uk/ukvet/articles/Cattle_calf%20pneumonia.pdf                                        http://www.milkproduction.com/Library/Articles/pneumonia_calf.htm
To Treat:
If signs and symptoms are mild, the animal will get over it without treatment. Isolate infected animals from the group. Antibiotics are usually used to treat pneumonia, but some pneumonia's are caused by viruses, and antibiotics are ineffective. Get your vet to visit any very ill animals. For sweaty animals, really encourage them to drink, and replace lost fluids. Try warm water and glucose drinks. Calf rearing sheds should provide shelter from the weather. They should also allow plenty of fresh air to circulate.
Calf NUTRITION: http://www.milkproduction.com/Topics/calves/Calf_nutrition.htm
CALF HEALTH: http://www.milkproduction.com/Topics/calves/calf_health.htm

Introduction
Small Farm Essentials  |	All About Pastures
Fertiliser  |	Seasonal Management
Behaviour: Cattle, Deer, Goats  |	Birth: Dystocia and Helping
Newborns & Calf Rearing  |	Metabolic Problems
Common Diseases: Treatment & Prevention
Preventable Diseases (in cattle, sheep, goats, and deer)

Email: small_farmer@hotmail.com
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