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Warning Signals of Hair Loss in Calves Due to Consumption of Alcohol and Diarrhea

Identifying hair loss in calves can signal a past illness, yet understanding the causes remains crucial for farmers.

Calving hair loss: Indicators of excessive drinking and recurrent diarrhea
Calving hair loss: Indicators of excessive drinking and recurrent diarrhea

Warning Signals of Hair Loss in Calves Due to Consumption of Alcohol and Diarrhea

In a recent development, a farmer has reported a peculiar case of hair loss in a calf, marking the third instance in her young cattle barn. This unusual symptom, accompanied by rumen acidosis, blood acidification, diarrhea, and occasional bloating, has been linked to a disease pattern known as 'pancreatic drinkers'.

This intriguing connection was first investigated by researcher J. Behrens, who found that calves suffering from this condition often exhibit hair loss, despite their otherwise healthy appearance and completely intact skin.

The phenomenon of 'pancreatic drinkers' occurs when the milk consumed by calves flows into the rumen-hindgut region instead of the rumen through the esophageal groove reflex. This anomaly can be caused by a disorder of the reflex, cold milk, stress, physical illnesses, or scours. Sometimes, milk flows back from the rumen into the rumen when the amount of milk is too large for its limited capacity.

The cause of hair loss after illness in calves is not yet fully clarified. However, a tip from professional colleagues on social networks suggests that the hair loss could be a case of recovered blood acidification caused by diarrhea or 'pancreatic drinkers'. Fortunately, the coat usually recovers on its own within a few weeks after the hair has fallen out.

As the farmer seeks advice and shares her findings, the mystery of 'pancreatic drinkers' continues to unfold, shedding light on a less-known condition in the cattle industry. Further research and understanding of this condition can lead to better management practices and improved health outcomes for affected calves.

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