Producers are working hard to get each baby off on the right foot. Newborn calves are susceptible to various illnesses and injuries, and even the best calving seasons can be peppered with occasional health challenges. Iowa State University Extension and Outreach beef specialist Chris Clark said one such challenge is fracture of limbs.

“Fractures, or broken bones, in calves can occur from various types of trauma such as being stepped on by a cow, getting caught in a fence or simply slipping or falling,” he said. “Being aware of potential risk areas can help prevent bone fractures in young calves.”

Here are some precautionary tips to keep in mind.

* Avoid overstocking pens and buildings.

* Provide creep areas where calves can rest and relax separately from cows.

* Minimize mud and slick areas that can contribute to slips and falls.

* Provide adequate bunk space/feeder space so cows are not fighting one another for access to feed.

* Maintain pens, fences and gates to reduce opportunities for a calf to get a leg caught or pinch points in high traffic areas.

If such injuries do occur, know how to address them. This begins with consulting your veterinarian for advice and/or direct medical care to help with diagnosis, stabilization and pain management.

Broken bones should be stabilized at the joints above and below the fracture. Sometimes this can be done with something rigid to create a splint, like a cast or PVC pipe cut in half lengthwise. Cotton wrap should be used around the leg to cushion and protect the limb, and prevent lacerations, pressure sores, strangulation, etc. Vet wrap is often used as the outer wrap with tape used as necessary to secure it. The wrap should be kept relatively clean and dry.

A simple, nondisplaced fracture of a long bone near the center of the bone can be relatively simple to stabilize, Clark said. However, circumstances such as compound or open fractures (where the skin is open and bone exposed), displaced fractures, fractures that involve joints and/or growth plates, or fractures where bones are broken in multiple places all can be much more complicated.

Most fractures will heal in approximately six weeks, and splints and casts are often applied for six to eight weeks. Calves grow quickly and it is sometimes necessary to change the splint/cast at approximately three to four weeks to maintain a good fit. Keep in mind that ill-fitted splints and/or casts, or ones left on for too long can cause discomfort and secondary injury. Contact your veterinarian with any questions.