NAVEL HEALTH

By Veal Farmers of Ontario

UMBILICAL (OR NAVEL) INFECTIONS CAN BE A COSTLY AND COMMON DISEASE IN YOUNG CALVES. Recent studies in both Canada and the United States have found 19 to 27 per cent of calves can be affected with an enlarged or abnormal umbilicus.

Umbilical infections can cause short- and long-term consequences for heifer calves, as well as increased costs for treatment related to labour and drug expenses. Navel infections have also been associated with an increased risk of umbilical hernias, other calf diseases, and mortality, along with reduced growth rates and decreased survival in the herd. For male dairy calves, the consequences are similar, where calves arriving at a veal facility with an umbilical infection being much more likely to die and have a reduced weight. Treatment costs and production losses are estimated at approximately $40 per calf with an umbilical infection.

Several studies have shown that despite a high prevalence of umbilical infections, very few are treated, suggesting there could be underdiagnosis of this condition. To identify umbilical infections, it is necessary to feel the umbilicus to evaluate its size, and the presence of pain, heat or discharge. Specifically, if the umbilicus is more than 1.3 centimetres in diameter or hot, painful (calf flinches when it is touched), and there’s pus or foul-smelling discharge, the calf has an umbilical infection. Work with your veterinarian to determine the most appropriate treatment to address this condition.

It is also important to note that in updated transport regulations, calves leaving the farm must have a dry and healed umbilicus. Any calf with an unhealed, enlarged or infected navel cannot be transported.

To prevent navel infections, focus on minimizing contact between the umbilical cord and bacteria. At calving, the umbilical cord is most susceptible to bacterial contamination so ensuring the calving area is as clean as possible and free of manure is critical. In addition, the area calves are moved to after they are born should be clean, dry and free of manure.

Beyond ensuring excellent colostrum management and cleanliness in the calving and housing area, navel dipping with iodine or chlorhexidine is often a preventative measure for umbilical infections. There is variable evidence to document the benefit of this practice. More work is needed to confirm whether this is useful. Ensuring a clean environment with excellent colostrum management is best practice.

Brought to you by Veal Farmers of Ontario, Calf Care delivers the latest information and innovative ideas to help continuously improve the care of all dairy calves. Find out more at calfcare.ca.