By Cruz, A. M. and Naylor, J. M., Canadian Veterinary Journal, 1993
Description
Of 18 019 bovine cases examined over a period from January 1, 1982 to December 31, 1991, frostbite was diagnosed in 35 calves. All affected calves were under 3 months of age and all but 2 belonged to European-type beef breeds. The sex distribution was 40% males and 60% females. 63% of cases had occurred during winter, 34% in spring and 3% during autumn season. In 80% of admissions, the main presenting signs were respiratory disease, omphalitis, diarrhoea, septicaemia and ocular problems. Six calves were febrile and 16 hypothermic with temperature below 35.5oC being recorded in calves less than 4-day-old. Frostbite lesions were most common on the distal parts of the limbs, particularly the hindlimbs. Early lesions were swollen, oedematous on palpation and had very well demarcated limits. As the condition progressed, pink, red, or bluish-purple discoloration of the skin or the tissue beneath the hooves was seen. Further deterioration led to necrosis and sloughing of the skin, and in very severe cases, the hoof or the whole distal extremity became detached. Areas that were cold or undergoing avascular necrosis were not painful. Treatment was addressed at the primary problem and involved the use of antimicrobials and fluid therapy along with nursing care. 15 calves (42.8%) were discharged alive, 7 (20%) died in the clinic and 13 (37.1%) were killed for humane reasons
Of 18 019 bovine cases examined over a period from January 1, 1982 to December 31, 1991, frostbite was diagnosed in 35 calves. All affected calves were under 3 months of age and all but 2 belonged to European-type beef breeds. The sex distribution was 40% males and 60% females. 63% of cases had occurred during winter, 34% in spring and 3% during autumn season. In 80% of admissions, the main presenting signs were respiratory disease, omphalitis, diarrhoea, septicaemia and ocular problems. Six calves were febrile and 16 hypothermic with temperature below 35.5oC being recorded in calves less than 4-day-old. Frostbite lesions were most common on the distal parts of the limbs, particularly the hindlimbs. Early lesions were swollen, oedematous on palpation and had very well demarcated limits. As the condition progressed, pink, red, or bluish-purple discoloration of the skin or the tissue beneath the hooves was seen. Further deterioration led to necrosis and sloughing of the skin, and in very severe cases, the hoof or the whole distal extremity became detached. Areas that were cold or undergoing avascular necrosis were not painful. Treatment was addressed at the primary problem and involved the use of antimicrobials and fluid therapy along with nursing care. 15 calves (42.8%) were discharged alive, 7 (20%) died in the clinic and 13 (37.1%) were killed for humane reasons
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