Muscular dystrophy in calves

Muscular dystrophy in calves is often called White Muscle Disease (in Hebrew: “White Muscle Disease”). It is a nutritional disease that is common, especially in young calves.

What causes the disease?

The main cause is a lack of:

* Vitamin E

* Selenium

These two components are essential for protecting muscle cells from oxidative damage. When they are lacking, the muscles begin to break down and atrophy.

Clinical signs in calves

The disease can appear in different forms:

Mild form:

* General weakness

* Difficulty standing

* Rapid fatigue

Severe form:

* Limping or inability to stand

* Muscle tremors

* Difficulty breathing (if the respiratory muscles are damaged)

* In severe cases – sudden death

Sometimes the heart muscle is also damaged – and this is already a particularly dangerous situation.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is made by:

* Blood tests (selenium and vitamin E levels)

* Muscle enzyme tests

* In some cases – pathological examination (muscles appear white/faded)

Treatment

If caught early – treatment can be done:

* Selenium + vitamin E injection

* Rest and reduced exertion

But it is important to understand – damage that has already been done to the muscle is not always reversible.

Prevention (most important)

* Supplementing pregnant cows with selenium and vitamin E

* Supplementing calves after calving

* Checking feed quality (there are areas with selenium-poor soil)

Important point for breeders

The disease is more common:

* In very young calves

* During seasons when pasture is scarce

* In areas with a natural deficiency of selenium in the soil

*It is always advisable to consult a qualified veterinarian.