Cryptosporidiosis in a buffalo calf at Meerut, Uttar Pradesh and its successful therapeutic management

Cryptosporidium spp. are recognized as one of the most important enteric pathogens causing enteritis and severe diarrhoea in calves up to 1 month of age. Although the infection may be responsible for some mortality, its impact is mainly associated with the impairment of gastrointestinal functions and lower performance of animals. A female buffalo calf of 25 days old was presented to OPD section, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, SVPUA&T, Meerut, with the symptoms of severe voluminous watery cholera like diarrhea with mucous and blood tinge since 4–5 days. On physical examination, calf was dehydrated, weak, and emaciated with normal temperature. Parasitological examination of the faeces by the direct smear and modified Ziehl–Neelsen staining technique revealed presence of high number of Cryptosporidium spp. oocysts. The affected female buffalo calf was treated with azithromycin and provided supportive care. Diarrohoeal symptoms were stopped from 3rd day and animal returned to normal condition by 7th day post treatment.