scours

Scours is a term used to describe diarrhea and related enteric illness, most commonly in young farm animals such as calves, lambs, kids, piglets, and foals. It is also used informally for diarrheal illness in humans, though veterinary use is more frequent. Scours typically involves watery or semi-liquid stools and may be accompanied by dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, reduced appetite, and lethargy.

In livestock, scours can result from infectious agents such as E. coli, Salmonella, rotavirus, coronavirus, and coccidia, as well as dietary changes, stress, poor colostrum intake, or parasitic infections. Neonatal animals are especially susceptible. Signs vary with age and cause but commonly include frequent loose stools, dry gums, sunken eyes, reduced skin elasticity, and poor weight gain.

Diagnosis relies on clinical signs and exposure history; fecal tests and, when needed, bloodwork support the assessment. Treatment emphasizes rapid rehydration and electrolyte replacement, usually starting with oral solutions and moving to intravenous fluids in severe cases. Nutrition should be maintained, and the underlying cause treated when possible. Antibiotics are used selectively, and anticoccidial or antiparasitic drugs may be indicated for specific infections.

Prevention focuses on good husbandry: clean, dry housing; prompt isolation of affected animals; adequate colostrum for neonates; proper nutrition; and vaccination where available. The term scours may also appear in human medicine as a casual label for diarrhea.