Oral electrolyte therapy for diarrhoeic calves — how to pick the right electrolyte product

Oral rehydration therapy is a proven and cost-effective treatment for calves suffering from diarrhoea. The key components of an efficient oral electrolyte product are adequate concentrations of sodium, chloride and potassium, an energy source like glucose or glycine to facilitate water absorption, and sufficient concentrations of alkalinising substances to correct metabolic acidosis. A thorough understanding of the composition of commercial oral electrolyte solutions is important for practitioners to make informed treatment recommendations. Continued milk feeding is another cornerstone in the resuscitation of diarrhoeic calves since withholding milk can exacerbate dehydration and malnourishment.