Clostridial Abomasitis in a Holstein Calf
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A 12-day-old Holstein bull calf presented for a 10-day history of poor feed intake which progressed to depression and scours. The calf was treated with oral electrolytes and a five-day course of ceftiofur sodium prior to being examined by a veterinarian. Treatment with intravenous fluids was unsuccessful and the calf died two days later. Necropsy revealed mild peritoneal and thoracic effusion, multifocal atelectasis, moderate dehydration, and abnormal abomasal contents. Histologic findings included moderate, suppurative abomasitis and mild, multifocal, suppurative bronchopneumonia. Clinical, gross, and histopathologic findings supported a diagnosis of clostridial abomasitis caused by Clostridium perfringens type A, although ancillary testing for clostridial toxins was negative.