Diarrhea and metabolic acidosis on dairy calves fed initial starter containing alternative sources as a replacement for corn

Abstract

The objective of this project is to evaluate the severity of metabolic acidosis resulting from diarrhea in calves affected with up to 8 weeks of age consuming concentrate containing alternative energy sources to replace corn. In the first experiment 24 calves will concentrate containing corn as the main source of energy, corn and squash, and citrus pulp only. In the second experiment 32 calves receive initial concentrate containing corn syrup or molasses in increasing doses of replacement of corn: 1) Concentrate initial control of corn + 2% molasses, 2) 5% (DM) of molasses, 3) 10% (DM) of molasses, 4) 5% corn syrup. In both experiments the animals will be managed according to traditionally recommended management, individual being housed in shelters, with free access to water, receiving 4 L of milk replacer per day, divided into two meals, and concentrate ad libitum. Daily consumption of concentrate will be monitored. The animals will be weighed at weekly event before the milk supply in the morning, in a mechanical balance, up to eight weeks old when the experiment ends. Will be held daily evaluation of the stool according to its color, consistency and components. Relations will also be observed clinical signs such as rectal temperature, heart rate and breathing. Blood samples in healthy animals and animals exhibiting diarrhea in the first, second and third days of the diagnosis will be harvested for determination of pH, anion gap, CO2 pressure, base excess, plasma sodium, potassium, chloride, bicarbonate, D -lactate, L-lactate, acetic acid, glucose and beta-hydroxybutyrate. (AU)