When milk-replacer diets are being compounded for calves, a problem may be encountered with regard to the source of energy. Foreign fats are not always tolerated well and carbohydrates sometimes present certain limitations.

This report stems from an experience in which dextrose was used as the main source of energy in a diet composed basically of nonfat milk solids. Neuromuscular abnormalities similar to symptoms of thiamine deficiency developed; and as more cases were observed, it became apparent that biotin deficiency symptoms also were probably involved. Further work indicated that neither thiamine nor biotin alone, nor the two in combination, were effective in preventing the syndrome. Finally it was found that an increased intake of several B-vitamins in combination with relatively massive increases of thiamine and biotin offered good protection against development of the symptoms, and was reasonably effective in eliminating the condition once it had developed.

This paper presents detailed descriptions of the characteristic deficiency syndrome and a summary of results of certain treatments that were instituted in attempts to prevent or cure the abnormal condition with B-vitamin therapy.