Effects of an allicin-based product on cryptosporidiosis in neonatal calves.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate effectiveness of an allicin-based product in neonatal calves inoculated with Cryptosporidium parvum.

DESIGN

Randomized controlled study.

ANIMALS: 43 neonatal calves.

PROCEDURE: Calves were inoculated with 1.5 x 10(8) or 7.5 x 10(5) C parvum oocysts within 2 days after birth. Calves were given an allicin-based product once after inoculation or daily for 7 days after inoculation or were not treated. Calves that developed diarrhea were treated by administration of the product. Fecal consistency scores and weight gains were statistically evaluated.

RESULTS

Mean daily weight gain and severity of diarrhea in calves 4 to 21 days old were unaffected by prophylactic use of the product. However, intensive prophylactic administration may have delayed onset of C parvum-induced diarrhea in calves inoculated with the lower dose of oocysts.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: Administration of an allicin-based product did not alter duration of C parvum-induced diarrhea or enhance weight gain in neonatal calves. However, intensive prophylactic administration of an allicin-based product may delay onset of diarrhea in calves exposed to C parvum oocysts.