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Atresia, also known as “waterbelly”, is a condition that may be more common among calves than farmers realize. According to Prof John Mee from Teagasc, cases of atresia are often overlooked because very few calves are brought in for post-mortem examination. In a study conducted over eight years in Irish dairy herds, it was found that intestinal atresia, where the bowel is completely blocked in the foetal calf, was twice as common in male calves and in the offspring of older cows. The study also identified a genetic link to atresia, with some Jersey sires showing a higher incidence than Holstein-Friesian sires.

Symptoms of atresia include a swollen stomach filled with fluid and a lack of dung passing through the calf. Calves affected by atresia may initially appear normal but will eventually stop drinking, become swollen, and lie down frequently. Surgery can be performed, but the success rate is low and may propagate the condition to future generations. Farmers are advised to check for signs of atresia immediately after birth, particularly in calves from herds with a history of the condition.

Inbreeding and co-ancestry may play a role in the higher incidence of atresia in certain breeds like Jerseys. Farmers are encouraged to discuss any cases of atresia with their semen suppliers and consider genetic factors when breeding. Any farm experiencing calf losses within the first 10 days after birth should investigate the possibility of atresia as a cause. Manual pregnancy examination techniques may also pose a risk for atresia, and farmers are urged to switch to ultrasound scanning for early pregnancy detection.

In conclusion, identifying and addressing atresia in calves is crucial for reducing losses and improving overall herd health. By understanding the genetic factors and risk factors associated with atresia, farmers can make informed decisions to mitigate the impact of this condition on their livestock.

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