The Etiology of Generalized Alopecia in Young Calves

The study investigated the correlation between alopecia and ruminal drinking in 331 young calves up to 31 days old. It found that calves with alopecia had a significantly higher incidence of diarrhoea and persistent ruminal acidosis. Blood analysis showed significant differences in acidosis levels and concentrations of D-lactate, urea, and creatinine, as well as enzyme activities. Alopecia was associated with longer periods of illness, such as diarrhoea and ruminal drinking, which involve D-lactate production. However, the study could not determine if alopecia was due to toxic substance formation or essential substance deficiency.