Urinary system disorders in cows and calves

Urinary tract disorders in cows and calves can be serious and even life-threatening, especially in young males.

The most common problems

1 Urinary obstruction (Urolithiasis – stones in the urinary tract)

Most common in male calves and fattening calves.

Causes:

   •   A mixture rich in grains and low in fiber

   •   Improper calcium:phosphorus ratio (excess phosphorus)

   •   Lack of water

   •   Lack of salt in the mixture

Signs:

   •   Unsuccessful attempts to urinate

   •   Dripping urine or blood in the urine

   •   Pain, kicks in the abdomen

   •   Swelling of the abdomen if there is a ruptured bladder

   •   Restlessness then depression

A complete blockage is a veterinary emergency.

2 Urinary tract infection / cystitis

Less common, usually secondary to infection or injury.

Signs:

   •   Frequent urination

   •  Cloudy/odourous urine

   •  Fever

   •  Pain on palpation

3 Kidney damage

Can be caused by:

   •   Poisoning (plants, drugs, toxins)

   •   Systemic infections

   •   Severe dehydration

Signs:

   •  A sharp decrease in appetite

   •   Weakness

   •   Edema

   •  Change in urine output

4 Post-partum Hemoglobinuria

In dairy cows, phosphorus deficiency is most common.

Signs:

   •  Very dark urine (like cola)

   •   Anemia

   •   Weakness

Diagnosis

   •  Urine test

   •  Blood tests (urea, creatinine, phosphorus)

   •  Ultrasound

   •  Rectal palpation in cows

Treatment (depending on the cause)

   •   Unblocking (sometimes surgery)

   •   Antibiotics for infection

   •  Intravenous fluids

   •  Correcting mineral balance

   •   Change of mixture

Prevention is especially important in fattening calves

Proper calcium:phosphorus ratio (approximately 2:1)

Adding ammonium chloride to the mixture if necessary

Available and clean water

Avoiding excess grain

Providing free salt

*It is always advisable to consult a qualified veterinarian.