Calf Mortality in the Tropics: Multidimensional Challenges and Implications for Sustainable Dairy Development

Year : 2025 | Volume : 14 | Issue : 03 | Page : 7 23
By

Md. Emran Hossain,

Shilpi Islam,

  1. Professor, Department of Animal Science and Nutrition, Chattogram Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Khulshi, Chattogram, Bangladesh
  2. Professor, Department of Animal Science and Nutrition, Gazipur Agricultural University, Salna, Gazipur, Bangladesh

Abstract

Calf mortality remains a significant challenge in tropical dairy farming, posing threats to productivity and sustainability. This review explores the multifactorial factors contributing to calf mortality in the tropics, including environmental stress, infectious diseases, nutritional deficiencies, management practices, genetic factors, and social dynamics. Tropical climates, characterized by extreme temperature variations, humidity, and poor shelter, exacerbate stress and compromise calf health. Infectious diseases, such as bacterial, viral, and parasitic infections, coupled with inadequate veterinary care, further elevate mortality risks. Nutritional deficiencies, particularly in essential vitamins and minerals, contribute to weakened immune systems, while imbalanced feeding practices, such as poor-quality forage and excessive concentrate feeding, hinder optimal growth and health. Management-related issues, such as failure in colostrum feeding, inadequate hygiene, and improper handling, also contribute to high mortality rates. Additionally, genetic factors, including inbreeding and hereditary disorders, increase vulnerability to disease and environmental stress. This review highlights the need for integrated approaches to improve calf management, focusing on enhancing immunity through better nutrition and vaccination, reducing environmental stressors, and implementing effective disease control strategies. By addressing these challenges, sustainable dairy development in the tropics can be promoted, ensuring the proper health and welfare of calves.

 

Keywords: Calf mortality, disease management, dairy farming, environmental stress, genetic factors, immune function, infectious diseases, nutrition, tropical climate

[This article belongs to Research and Reviews : Journal of Veterinary Science and Technology ]

How to cite this article: Md. Emran Hossain, Shilpi Islam. Calf Mortality in the Tropics: Multidimensional Challenges and Implications for Sustainable Dairy Development. Research and Reviews : Journal of Veterinary Science and Technology. 2025; 14(03):7-23.
How to cite this URL: Md. Emran Hossain, Shilpi Islam. Calf Mortality in the Tropics: Multidimensional Challenges and Implications for Sustainable Dairy Development. Research and Reviews : Journal of Veterinary Science and Technology. 2025; 14(03):7-23. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/rrjovst/article=2025/view=252684

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Regular Issue Subscription Review Article
Volume 14
Issue 03
Received 10/06/2025
Accepted 15/09/2025
Published 16/09/2025
Publication Time 98 Days

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