Enteral infectious diseases in calves: Etiology and management

Authors: Ilia Tissen, Georgiy Demchenko, Maxat Berdikulov, Serik Abdreshov, Zhaniha Lesova, Laura Koibasova, and Kuandyk Shyhybayev

Ger. J. Vet. Res 2026. vol. 6, Iss. 1 pp:44-58
Doi: https://doi.org/10.51585/gjvr.2026.1.0177

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Abstract:

Calf infections are caused by a range of viral and bacterial pathogens, often as mixed infections.  In addition to non-specific clinical signs such as anorexia, fever, and poor body condition, affected calves typically exhibit respiratory and gastrointestinal symptoms. Elevated neonatal calf mortality is primarily due to gastroenteritis, pneumonia, and sepsis. The prevalence and severity of these infections differ among farms, influenced by pathogen type and management practices. Gastrointestinal disorders are most prevalent in calves aged 1 to 30 days, with morbidity rates ranging from 50% to 100% and mortality reaching up to 55%. Principal bacterial pathogens include enteropathogenic Escherichia coli, Salmonella spp., Pasteurella spp., Clostridium spp., and Streptococcus spp., which may exacerbate viral infections. Major viral agents associated with gastrointestinal disease include parainfluenza-3 virus, bovine coronavirus, bovine diarrhea virus, and rotavirus, which cause viral diarrhea and mucosal disease. A comprehensive understanding of the principal pathogens, their transmission routes, and factors influencing disease incidence is essential for effective prevention and management in large-scale livestock operations. This review highlights the main infectious causes of calf diarrhea and underscores the importance of early intervention for effective disease control.

Keywords:

Bovine coronavirus, Bovine diarrhea virus, Cryptosporidium, Cattle, Clostridia, Parainfluenza-3 virus, Pasteurella, Escherichia coli, Salmonella, Streptococcus spp, Rotavirus

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