Sometimes, no matter how many preventive measures you take, calf scours show up in the best-managed herds. "Still, you should be prepared for an outbreak every year, developing a program with your veterinarian focusing on detection, isolation, diagnosis and treatment," says Rick Rasby, University of Nebraska beef cattle specialist.

• Pre-plan a course of action with your veterinarian and implement it immediately when the first case occurs.
• Isolate affected calves immediately and do not expose healthy calves since scours organisms are highly contagious and spread rapidly through contact and even inhalation.
• Identify the causative organism. Your veterinarian may recommend sampling the stool of a sick calf to culture and identify the causative organism.
• Prevent dehydration, since this is usually the most immediate concern with scours. Your veterinarian can outline a fluid therapy to be used.

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