Sick holstein calf??? Possibly?

Question

he has a bit of a swollen rib cage. almost looks like he is taking a deep breath. not finishing his milk like usual and just not a peppy as normal. just noticed this morning. yesterday seemed okay in the am and fair last night. something is not right any suggestions other than taking to vet? Could it be wormy or something?

Answer 1

Take him to the vet, or have your vet make a visit.  It is possible that he has a broken rib, especially if he is not take full breaths.  It is possible that he could have worms... but that doesn't explain the not finishing the milk.   Best advice is the vet. At least call and explain his symptoms and see what they say.

Answer 2

Any chance that you live at a high altitude, or obtained your calf from a high altitude? It sounds like High-mountain disease or brisket disease, which is a noninfectious, congestive heart failure of cattle. It is primarily caused by pulmonary hypertension associated with high altitudes. Fluid on the heart and fluid in body cavities causes a swelling of the brisket and rib cage. It most commonly shows up in calves under two months old.

Answer 3

How old is he?  How much milk are you giving him?  Real milk or replacement?  How do his bowel movements look?  If he isn't having them, take a warm wet washcloth and rub around his butt, like the cow would do with her tounge.  He could be bound up.  

I'd check out what the post above me said, they are worth too much to loose!

Good luck.