Calf VIGOR Scorer

Name: Calf VIGOR Scorer
Author: University of Wisconsin-Madison

University of Wisconsin-Madison

VALIDATED

Initial research evidence · Mixed findings

For:Researchers & AcademicsClinicians & Healthcare ProfessionalsIndustry Professionals

2.99 USD

Download on the App Store

App Summary

The Calf VIGOR Scorer is an assessment tool for veterinarians and producers that uses a systematic scoring method, similar to the human Apgar score, to evaluate the vitality of newborn calves. The associated research explains that the VIGOR system was designed to systematically assess key indicators—such as movement, responsiveness, and vital rates—to identify high-risk calves in need of early intervention. The authors note that identifying low-vigor calves with this tool allows for the targeted application of interventions, such as pain management after difficult births, to improve vitality and survivability.

App Screenshots

Detailed Description

Functionality & Mechanism

Developed by the University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine, this app operationalizes the Calf VIGOR Scoring System from the University of Guelph. The system facilitates a rapid, Apgar-like assessment of newborn calves. The interface guides the assignment of scores (0-3) across criteria including visual appearance, movement initiation, general responsiveness, oxygenation, and physiological rates. It then computes a total score, classifying calf vitality into five distinct, color-coded categories to streamline on-farm decision-making.

Evidence & Research Context

The VIGOR scoring system was designed at the University of Guelph to provide an objective, standardized method for assessing newborn dairy calf vitality.
Its primary design objective is to facilitate the rapid identification of high-risk, low-vigor calves, enabling the application of timely interventions to improve survivability.
Associated research notes that non-steroidal anti-inflammatory interventions may improve vitality and health outcomes, particularly for low-vigor calves experiencing dystocia.
The scoring system serves as a key assessment component in research protocols for clinical trials evaluating neonatal calf care and pain management programs.

Intended Use & Scope

This tool is intended for veterinarians, farm personnel, and researchers for the standardized screening of neonatal calf vitality. Its primary utility is to identify at-risk calves that may require intervention. The score does not constitute a diagnosis and is not a substitute for a comprehensive veterinary examination for specific underlying pathologies.

Studies & Publications

1 publication

Peer-reviewed research associated with this app.

Effectiveness/Outcome Study

Effect of implementing a novel calf vitality scoring system and early intervention program on pain management in newborn dairy calves

Coetzee et al. (2018) · American Association of Bovine Practitioners Conference Proceedings

App accurately identified at-risk calves, but the pain management program did not improve growth or health outcomes.

Pain management in newborn calves after dystocia and assisted calving is still not addressed by most producers or veterinarians. The calf VIGOR scoring system, developed at the University of Guelph, was designed to be applied within minutes after birth to assesses Visual appearance, Initiation of movement, General responsiveness, Oxygenation, and heart and respiration Rates in calves. The VIGOR scoring system was designed to identify high risk/low vigor calves for the purpose of applying interventions to improve vigor and survivability. In different studies conducted at the University of Guelph it was reported that providing pain management with a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (meloxicam), shortly after birth, may improve calf vitality, health and performance outcomes, particularly in calves experiencing dystocia. The objective of this study was to conduct a randomized controlled trial to evaluate the effect of implementing a novel program that includes assessment of newborns using the VIGOR scoring system followed by provision of meloxicam to calves with low vigor scores, on outcomes reflecting calf well-being and health.

In the Media

Calf 911 - How To Evaluate Newborn Calves Using the Calf VIGOR Scoring System

The University of Guelph developed the Calf VIGOR Scorer to help producers evaluate newborn calves for signs of distress or trauma using a standardized examination system. The app uses five objective measurements of calf vitality: Visual appearance, Initiation of movement, General responsiveness, Oxygenation, and Respiratory/heart rates. A calf vigor score below 20 indicates immediate need for intervention including colostrum, pain management, and respiratory acidosis treatment.

BeefresearchRead article

Calf VIGOR Scorer App - App Store

The University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine developed Calf VIGOR Scorer to assess newborn calf vitality, functioning "like the Apgar score for newborn calves" by evaluating their movements, responsiveness, and breathing patterns. The app allows users to track various calf behaviors from standing attempts to eye responsiveness, rating calves on a comprehensive vitality scale through simple swipes and taps.

AppleRead article

Scoring newborn calf vitality

University of Guelph PhD researcher Christine Murray developed the Calf VIGOR Scorer to assess signs of distress in newborn calves using objective measurements, addressing the inconsistency of subjective evaluations that may miss trauma from difficult births. The VIGOR system evaluates five observable signs - visual appearance, initiation of movement, general responsiveness, oxygenation and rates - similar to the APGAR system used for human babies. Murray explains that trauma from difficult births "compromises a calf's ability to regulate body temperature because it may weaken the shivering reflex and impair mobilization of fat for energy."

CanadiancattlemenRead article