Neonatal dönem ishalli buzağılarda auracalf L®' i̇n etkinliğinin araştırılması

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of a natural feed additive, AuraCalf L®, on physiological, hematological, and microbiological parameters in neonatal calf diarrhea. A total of 14 calves, consisting of 7 in the treatment group and 7 in the control group, all admitted to the Afyon Kocatepe University Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Animal Hospital with diarrhea complaints during the neonatal period, were randomly selected for the study. The calves were randomly divided into two groups: a control group that received standard supportive therapy and a treatment group that received AuraCalf L® in addition to supportive therapy. Clinical assessments were conducted on days 0, 5, and 7, evaluating fecal consistency, body temperature, general condition, and dehydration levels. Hematological parameters were analyzed using a fully automated blood cell counter, while fecal samples were examined for pathogen detection using immunochromatographic rapid test kits. Data were analyzed using the Mann-Whitney U test, Wilcoxon Signed-Rank test, and Spearman correlation analysis, with statistical significance accepted at p<0.05. On day 0, both groups showed similar characteristics. Although a decrease in elevated body temperature and respiratory rate was observed on days 5 and 7, these changes were not statistically significant. However, a significant increase in pulse rate was recorded in the treatment group, suggesting a potential influence of the feed additive on metabolic processes and immune activation. Hematological examinations revealed a decrease in WBC and %LYM values, while %MID and %GRAN values increased, indicating possible regulation of the immune response. Furthermore, immunochromatographic test results showed a noticeable reduction in pathogens such as Cryptosporidium spp. and Rotavirus in the treatment group. AuraCalf L® was found to have beneficial effects on immune cell distribution, inflammation control, and the management of gastrointestinal infections. Although no significant changes were observed in body temperature or respiratory rate, and no toxic effects were detected, these findings suggest that AuraCalf L® may be a safe feed additive. However, more comprehensive studies are needed to evaluate its long-term use and the effects of different dosages. Keywords: Alternative Treatment, AuraCalf L®, Calf Diarrhea, Neonatal period.