When a farmer in Tokoroa, Waikato called about a five-week-old Friesian cross Jersey calf with a “blimp-sized” abdomen, our team knew immediate action was needed. The calf had:

• ✅ Normal temperature
• ✅ High heart and respiratory rates
• ✅ Severe abdominal distension

These signs indicated significant pain and possible gastrointestinal complications.

Initial Assessment and Diagnostics

We passed a stomach tube to rule out oesophageal impaction and relieve any free gas. The tube entered the rumen easily, eliminating an oesophageal blockage. Only a small amount of gas was released, ruling out free gas bloat. Green liquid in the tube also ruled out ruminal milk drinking bloat.

Possible Causes Considered

• Frothy bloat from lush, highly digestible forage
• Gastrointestinal blockage or impaction further down the gastrointestinal tract (GIT)
• Twisted gut
• Ruptured abomasum
• Vagal nerve damage
• Clostridial disease (e.g., tetanus)

Treatment Plan

We opted for conservative treatment:

• Pain relief and anti-inflammatory medication
• 100 ml paraffin oil via stomach tube (to break down frothy bloat and clear blockages)
• Antibiotics (to prevent bacterial translocation from the rumen)

Outcome and Likely Cause

The calf improved overnight, and the bloating reduced significantly. The most likely cause was:

• Overindulgence on lush, bloat-prone pasture, or
• Impaction further down the gastrointestinal tract

Key Takeaways for Waikato Farmers

• Pasture bloat is rare in young calves, but it can happen.
• Vaccinate for clostridial diseases to prevent complications like tetanus.
• Paraffin oil is safe and effective for frothy bloat and blockages.
• Always administer oral fluids slowly or ensure tubing is correctly placed in the oesophagus.

Need Advice on Calf Bloat or Emergency Care?

If you suspect bloat in calves, call your local Waikato vet clinic immediately. Early intervention saves lives.

📞 Contact us today for advice or emergency support.