Frequency of diarrhea in dairy calves submitted to different breeding conditions in the border of Rio de Janeiro and Minas Gerais states, Brazil

Abstract

The main diseases affecting calves, and consequently, representing economic losses with treatment and mortality losses are diarrhea, tick borne diseases and pneumonia. In general, these diseases are related to poor environmental conditions and food hygiene, plus inadequate management. The present work aimed at estimate the frequency of diarrhea in dairy milk calves submitted to different breeding conditions. Twenty dairy milk type C farms, located at the cities of Valença, Rio das Flores (RJ) and Rio Preto (MG), were visited from August of 1998 to July of 1999 and 1974 calves were examined. Statistical analysis of diarrhea frequency showed that the lowest occurrence of diarrhea was achieved in the following situations: to let the calves stayed with their mothers after born for at least 24 hours after delivery, use of natural milk feeding and also, to allow the calves to receive supplemental feeding. In general, these farms presented lower cows in lactation, lower milk production and familiar management, which contribute to higher levels of care.