Pancreatic Secretion in the Bovine Calf

Abstract

Abstract Fourteen dairy calves, ranging in age from 3–180 days, were used for pancreatic secretion studies. The aseptic return cannula loop was adapted to connect to an electronic drop-counter and recorder. Generally, this cannula could be kept in place only 3–6 wk. Pancreatic flow increased with age. Flow during and after feeding in young calves followed a characteristic pattern similar to that of the simple-stomached animal, but by four months of age it became more constant, approaching the pattern observed in mature sheep. There was no evidence of physical disability in four calves having total loss of pancreatic juice through the outflow cannula for 3–6 wk. A gradually declining flow was observed in two calves fasted for 61 hr.