Intraperitoneal fluid administration to neonatal calves

Fluid therapy is indicated in dehydrated calves primarily for volume replacement and when more than 8 days old for correcting acid-base aberrations. Those that are recumbent and unable to suck will likely require IV fluid therapy. The animals likely to benefit from IPFT are those that are able to suck and ambulate but are likely to require more than oral rehydration therapy.