DISORDERS OF SODIUM-BALANCE IN DIARRHEIC CALVES - PATHOPHYSIOLOGY ANDTREATMENT

The instructions for preparing oral electrolyte replacement vary consi derably among brands. Errors in preparing such solutions can cause cli nically significant hypo- or hypernatremia in diarrheic calves. This a rticle discusses sodium homeostasis and the diagnosis and treatment of sodium imbalances in diarrheic calves. Appropriate fluid therapy is u seful in reversing neurologic signs attributable to severe sodium imba lance. Practitioners in the field should, however, rely on empiric tre atment of more common causes of depression that affect diarrheic calve s (e.g., dehydration, hypothermia, acidosis, hypoglycemia, and sepsis) before suspecting symptomatic hypo- or hypernatremia as a cause of ne urologic dysfunction. Oral electrolyte solutions for treatment of calv es with acute diarrhea should be prepared according to the manufacture r's recommendations. Water should be available free choice, and additi onal nutrition in the form of milk should be provided.