Polioencephalomalacia (PEM) in Calves

PEM is a neurological condition caused by a lack of thiamine (vitamin B1). It leads to brain damage and symptoms like:

* Ataxia (lack of coordination)

* Blindness

* Head pressing

* Seizures

* Recumbency

Causes:

* Thiamine deficiency (most common)

* High sulfur diets

* Ingestion of thiaminase-producing plants

Treatment:

* Thiamine injections (10-20 mg per kg body weight) TID

* Proper nutrition and avoiding high sulfur diets