Local Farmer Discovers Calves' Unusual Hair Loss Linked to Pan Drinking
A local farmer has reported an unusual issue affecting her young cattle. She discovered the third calf with hair loss in her barn, despite showing no other signs of illness. This hair loss could be linked to a condition known as pan drinking.
Pan drinking occurs when milk flows into the wrong part of the calf's digestive system, the rumen-hindgut region, instead of directly into the rumen. This can lead to rumen acidosis and blood acidification, which may cause hair loss as seen in the farmer's calves. The farmer noticed that the calves had no other skin issues, indicating that the hair loss was not due to a skin condition.
The cause of pan drinking can vary. It could be due to improper feeding techniques, such as drinking too quickly or sucking in air, or it could be due to anatomical abnormalities affecting normal milk flow. Disturbances in the esophageal groove reflex, cold milk, stress, or physical illnesses can also trigger pan drinking. In some cases, milk flowing back from the rumen into the rumen-hindgut region, especially with large milk volumes, can also cause pan drinking.
The farmer's discovery of hair loss in her calves due to pan drinking serves as a reminder of the importance of proper feeding techniques and regular health checks in cattle. While the cause of hair loss after illness is not yet fully understood, the farmer can take comfort in knowing that the coat usually recovers on its own in a few weeks. She is advised to monitor her cattle closely and consult with a vet if the issue persists.
Read also:
- Intestinal Infection Causing Stomach Distress: Signs and Remedies
- What is the expected timing for the flu season in this current year?
- Essential Information on Cushing Syndrome: a Disorder Caused by High Cortisol Levels
- Starting in September, elderly individuals aged 75 years and above will be enrolled in a preventive program for Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV).
