Symptoms and treatment of salmonellosis in calves, instructions for the use of serum
Calf salmonellosis is understood as an acute infection that is associated with infection with dangerous bacteria. In this case, the animals develop symptoms of fever, and the functioning of the digestive organs is disrupted. In difficult situations, the respiratory organs, including the lungs, suffer. To cope with the violation, it is recommended that you contact your veterinarian in a timely manner.
Historical background, economic damage
Salmonol and Smith were the first to identify the causative agent of the disease. This happened back in 1885. Sexually mature individuals who are able to transmit the infection to other animals and people are more often ill. Salmonellosis is considered a common disease that occurs in many countries, and Russia is no exception. Economic damage is measured by the significant mortality of young animals. In this case, the pathology spreads rapidly and in a short time can lead to the defeat of the entire herd.
The causative agent and causes of the disease
Salmonellosis is caused by small sticks - on average, their size is 2-4 microns. They have rounded edges. All types of Salmonella that provoke the defeat of young animals die when exposed to temperatures of 70-75 degrees for 15-30 minutes. Moreover, they are able to tolerate freezing for 3-4 months. Salmonella can live in feces, manure and water for several months.
Most often, the pathology develops in the spring - during calving. The main cause of infection is considered to be a significant weakening of the immune system in young animals and a violation of the general resistance of the body to various viruses and bacteria. This is due to the lack of vitamins and minerals, unfavorable conditions of detention.
Salmonellosis is especially dangerous for calves 10-60 days old. First of all, weak or physically underdeveloped animals suffer. Infection occurs when milk is fed to a cow that is a carrier of Salmonella.
Symptoms and course of pathology
Symptoms of pathology directly depend on the form of its course. However, it can be acute and chronic.
Acute form
In acute salmonellosis, calves have the following symptoms:
- general weakness - animals are constantly lying or sleeping;
- discharge of fluid from the nose;
- an increase in temperature to 39-42 degrees;
- complete or partial loss of appetite;
- the development of diarrhea - observed on days 2-3;
- involuntary leakage of feces - occurs on the 5th day.
Symptoms vary in acute salmonellosis.Sometimes rhinitis, conjunctivitis, and cough are considered standard manifestations.
Chronic
Chronic salmonellosis has approximately the same symptoms. However, arthritis is also added to them. This form of pathology occurs in the absence of adequate treatment for an acute process. In this case, chronic salmonellosis can be present for 2-3 months. Therefore, it is so important to start therapy in a timely manner. In cows, the disease can be practically asymptomatic, since their body is more resistant to the disease.
How is the disease diagnosed
It is important to carry out differential diagnosis of salmonellosis with dyspepsia, pasteurellosis, colibacillosis. It is also important to distinguish pathology from a diplococcal or streptococcal infection. The diagnosis is recommended to be complex.
In this case, it is worth considering the epizootic situation. Symptoms, bacteriological and serological test data are also important.
To make an accurate diagnosis, it is recommended to send samples of liver, spleen, lung tissue, gallbladder to the laboratory. Examination of the liver and spleen is required to identify the carrier. To make a diagnosis during life, it is worth studying the feces and blood.
Rules for the treatment of salmonellosis in cattle
Timely help will help prevent massive animal deaths and achieve full recovery. In this case, it is recommended to carry out complex therapy. Its main tasks include the following:
- suppression of bacterial microorganisms;
- elimination of symptoms of intoxication;
- normalization of the digestive organs.
Before starting therapy for sick calves, it is recommended to do the following:
- isolate a sick animal in a separate room;
- provide the calf with a diet;
- create a suitable microclimate in the room - in this case, humidity, ventilation, temperature are important;
- introduce vitamins and minerals into the diet that help to strengthen the immune system.
Antibiotics
One of the most effective methods of combating salmonellosis is the use of antibacterial agents and sulfonamides. Before introducing a drug, it is imperative to evaluate the animal's reaction to it. Most often, for salmonellosis use "Levomycetin". It is recommended to use it in a volume of 0.04 grams per 1 kilogram of body weight. Before use, the composition should be mixed with water and the calves should be fed. It is recommended to do this 3 times a day. The course of therapy lasts 2-3 days.
Also, with this diagnosis, it is permissible to use "Tetracycline". The substance is given to calves in a volume of 0.02 grams per 1 kilogram of weight. "Syntomycin" is no less effective. At the same time, 0.02-0.04 grams should be used per 1 kilogram of body weight.
This treatment option is especially effective for chronic salmonellosis. With its help, it is possible to avoid the appearance of pneumonia. In this case, the dosage of sulfonamides on the first day of treatment should be 0.1 grams per 1 kilogram of body weight.
Antitoxic serum
On the first day of therapy, polyvalent antitoxic serum must be used. It is made on the basis of immunoglobulins and antitoxins from healthy animals. In this case, the agent is combined with antibiotics from the tetracyclines group. It contributes to the formation of passive immunity to pathogens.
When treating calves, it is important to strictly follow the instructions for use. The agent is recommended to be administered intravenously or intramuscularly. In this case, animals up to 10 days are shown 5-10 cubic centimeters of serum.Calves 10-30 days are injected with 20 cubic centimeters of the drug. To achieve the maximum effect, the daily volume should be divided by 3-4 times. Serum helps to neutralize the activity of bacterial microorganisms, while antibiotics help prevent pneumonia.
When is the vaccine indicated?
Vaccination of calves is considered an effective method of preventing the development of salmonellosis. Several types of agents are used to prevent the disease. However, for calves, the formulated alum vaccine is the best option. It is worth getting vaccinated in the first 2-3 days of life. In this case, the drug is recommended to be administered subcutaneously - in the neck area. After 3-5 days, the procedure is carried out again.
Timely vaccination of pregnant cows is of particular importance. They should be administered the medicine in 2 doses, making an interval of 8-10 days. For the first time, it is recommended to inject 10 cubic centimeters of the product, the second - 15. Pregnant heifers are vaccinated 50-60 days before delivery. The drug lasts 6 months. Then the injections must be repeated. It is recommended to buy the vaccine only in specialty stores or veterinary pharmacies. When using the drug, it is important to strictly follow the instructions. It should be borne in mind that after vaccination, immunity in a calf is not formed immediately - this happens only after 10-12 days.
Preventive actions
Treatment of salmonellosis is considered to be quite difficult. It is easier to prevent the appearance of pathology. To do this, you should adhere to these rules:
- follow veterinary and sanitary recommendations for keeping calves;
- systematically treat the premises with disinfectants;
- avoid accumulation of waste products in pens with cattle;
- competently staff the herd;
- provide animals with sufficient water;
- actively fight rodents and other pests;
- isolate infected individuals in a timely manner;
- timely vaccinate.
Salmonellosis is considered a dangerous disease that can kill calves. Therefore, when the first signs of an illness appear, it is recommended to immediately contact a veterinarian. To avoid the appearance of an ailment, it is worthwhile to vaccinate.
