28 January 2022

Having an effective cleaning and disinfection programme is essential in modern calf house management, as a thoroughly cleaned and disinfected pen aids the health of calves and reduces mortality rates. Therefore, it is important that housing management systems are optimised in order to prevent stress and limit the calf’s susceptibility to disease.

Inevitably, however, calves will be exposed to viruses, bacteria and parasites in their environment, which are capable of causing scours, respiratory problems or other diseases. Through the use of a controlled disinfection programme, the number of infections and organisms to which the calf is exposed are reduced. The health of calves should be a priority, as how they are looked after in early life affects their adult life, which can essentially save both time and money. 

Coccidiosis and Cryptosporidium, both diarrhoea causing infections common in young calves, which can be fatal, are hard to treat. However, prevention through good cleaning and disinfection is key to reduction. Evans Vanodine has tested and found the following system to be effective in destroying  the oocysts which enable the infections to spread and we recommend the following cleaning and disinfection programme to help to reduce cases.

 

1. Remove all animals and portable equipment from the pen. 
2. Remove any organic material. 
3. Apply Target Powergel at 1:14 through a foam cleaner or low-pressure washer (less than 70 bar). Allow a 1-hour contact time before rinsing off thoroughly with clean water and allow to air dry. 
4. Spray all areas thoroughly with a solution of GPC8 at 1:35, at a rate of 300ml per square metre. For best results apply as a foam. 
5. Refit portable equipment and allow to air dry.

Protective clothing and equipment (PPE) must be available for all personnel. It is essential that the correct clothing and equipment is utilised when using chemicals to clean and/or disinfect.

Our extensive product range, complimented by our hands-on approach, from technical support and farm visits to our in-house testing facilities and comprehensive literature, help provide you with the tools and expertise to implement a successful and effective hygiene programme.

To view and download our Calf Pen Best Practice flyer, click HERE.

To view and download our Calf Hygiene Brochure, click HERE.