Author(s): Bulent Elitok
Dehydration in neonatal calves with diarrhea caused by metabolic acidosis is a common cause of death. Severely dehydrated calves that are unable to suckle need intravenous fluids for effective resusc itation. The aim of fluid therapy in metabolic acidosis is to replace the water and electrolytes that are lost in the scour. The solutions must have adequate buffers to correct the acidosis, and adequate energy for absorption of fluids from the intestines. Different brands are available, however it is very important to realise that not all electrolyte products on the market fit these criteria, in fact many are far from it. Some researchers claim that LR has a better clinical correction than NaCl, illustrated by more rapid physiological correction, showing that mixed metabolic acidosis was corrected quicker and more appropriately with this treatment. Moreover, hyperosmolality and hypernatremic states were also corrected with both solutions, but more quickly with LR. Hypertonic sodium bicarbonate solutions (1.3-8.4%) are also used in the treatment of metbolic acidosis in calves. Main questions are that how much fluid does a calf lose when it is scouring? What type of fluid is the best? Can I mix the electrolytes with the milk? Aims of this review are find out the correct answers to these questions. Key words: Metabolic Acidosis, Calves, Sodium Bicarbonate, Lactate Ringer Solution, Acide-Base Balance, Endocrin Response