Table 1.

Evaluation of calves at birth for observable skeletal malformations

#	Group	# Days to parturition	Weight, kg	Malformations *	Euthanized †
1	Control	291	30	Normal	No
2	Control	292	32	Normal	No
3	Control	290	27	Normal	No
4	Control	277	31	Normal	No
5	Control	290	30	Normal	No
6	Continuous	280	26	Severe MCC ‡	Yes
7	Continuous	280	28	Severe contractures ‖	Yes
8	Continuous	285	32	Moderate contractures $	No
9	Continuous	283	34	Severe MCC ‡	Yes
10	Continuous	275	30	Severe MCC ‡	Yes
11	Intermittent	280	33	Minor contractures ¶	No
12	Intermittent	290	37	Minor contractures ¶	No
13	Intermittent	284	30	Minor contractures ¶	No
14	Intermittent	279	25	Normal	No

^*Calves were visually evaluated for skeletal contracture malformations immediately after birth.

^†Malformations severe enough to require the calf to be euthanized.

^‡Severe appendicular and axial contractures and rotations. MCC, multiple congenital contractures.

^‖Severe appendicular contractures and rotations.

^$Moderate appendicular contractures and rotations, which resolved after 4 to 6 wk.

^¶Minor contractions of the limbs and knee joints, which resolved after 2 to 3 wk.