Metabolic acidosis in calves

In neonatal calves metabolic acidosis is a common sequela to diarrhea-induced dehydration and endotoxemia in the aftermath of gram-negative bacterial infections. Without treatment, metabolic acidosis is a prime factor in the death of many of these calves. This article begins with a general discussion about the causes and recognition of metabolic acidosis. The remaining sections detail the subjective and objective methods available to assess the severity of acidosis and treatment options for this metabolic condition.