Anyone know what this is?

[farmgineer]

As per the title... What is causing the fur loss and how should I treat it? This is a very young calf

 

[Kidds]

I’m not a stockman but I would say photosensitivity due to a plant they have come into contact with.
Possibly hogweed based on where it is but St Johns wort is what usually gets the blame iirc.

 

[Spuddler]

From what I can see it looks like some sort of dermatitis.

 

[Werzle]

You sure he hasnt been stuck somewhere and you have only just seen it now its healing? or has any spraying been done in or around the field?

 

[manhill]

Mange?

 

[Gulli]

If the lighter haired skin feels like cardboard then photosensitivity

 

[ilyria]

A friend had a cow who was photosensitive who presented like that. She peeled patched off hair off so ended up being turned out ina fly rug for the horse

 

[primmiemoo]

I'd use a gentle udder cream on the sore patches - nothing fragranced or remotely harsh - applied daily, and bring the calf into a fairly dark shed for a while (with dam), if it is photosensitivity. The skin goes very dry, so the emollient is definitely needed.

Is the calf's nose and ears affected?

Having said all that, I have known a young calf to be "burned" by its dam's urine. Cow peed over the calf, and it developed sore places soon after. That responded to udder cream, and there was no need to bring indoors.

 

[farmgineer]

Thanks for all the feedback, very helpful. I have had spraying done in the next field but not this one, so don't think its that. I will check what weeds are about and have had him in to put some cream on. Will keep an eye on it and see how he gets on. Cheers