Elizabeth Homerosky, DVM, MSc, DABVP, set out to find a solution to quickly identify compromised calves and help predict whether a calf will acquire optimal passive immunity. Her research sought to identify compromised calves immediately after birth to allow the producer ample time to provide an intervention, if needed.
Her study data revealed calves with a weak suckle reflex at 10 minutes after birth, including poor jaw tone or rhythm, were at a very high risk of failing to nurse on their own by four hours after birth. Calves with a weak suckle reflex were highly associated with acidosis, as well as high lactate and other abnormal blood gas parameters.
Source: Drovers, January 24, 2023. Link.
. . . there’s a physiological component to suckle reflex, as acidosis often leads to poor muscle tone and weak reflexes . . . <affecting> a calf’s ability to quickly learn how to nurse.”
INSIGHTS: Consider the importance of educating producers to check suckle responses and helping them to develop a practical calf vigor evaluation plan for their operation.