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northeastern Ohio | Are they lactating? If so, dehydration can cause milk fever (low calcium) as well as grass tetney (low potassium) and they will need CMPK iv asap if showing symptoms (falling down, cold ears, ect)!!!! Can also happen in non-lactating too.
Here is more info:
Dehydrated adult cattle usually have a metabolic alkalosis and it is important to use non-alkalinizing fluids. Alkalosis is addressed by providing more extracellular anions relative to the excess of cations. Fluid preparations, whether oral or IV, need to contain sources of chloride electrolytes when administered to dehydrated cattle.
Oral rehydration of adult cattle is sufficient in most cases where dehydration is less than 8% of bodyweight and the animal is not toxic. Oral administration by using a full length orogastic tube (14-foot tube marked at the 10-foot length to insure rumen placement) and pumping in 20 to 50 liters of fluid depending on rumen capacity and degree of dehydration. Non-chilled water when mixed with electrolytes is the preferred fluid choice and will replace the need for intravenous isotonic fluids for all but the severely dehydrated or toxic animal.
For adult cattle dehydrated 10% or more, and compromised toxic cows, IV isotonic fluids are necessary. If hypokalemia is suspected, 20–40 mEq/L of potassium chloride should be added. Hypocalcemia is a common confounding problem in a lactating cow that is dehydrated and off feed. Adding 250–500 ml of 23% of calcium gluconate will address the issue. Adding 5% glucose per liter will supply energy. Quantities of fluid administered are dependent on the level of dehydration and degree of vascular expansion needed to maintain cell perfusion. It is common to give 40 liters of fluid by rapid IV infusion (about 12 liters per hour) to expand the fluid volume and prevent hypovolemic shock. Fluids of choice are isotonic saline, Ringer’s solution, or non-pyogenic distilled water with added electrolytes, warmed closed to body temperature.
Edited by Jay NE Ohio 4/21/2017 15:44
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Dehydrated cows.
