Maple Syrup Urine Disease (MSUD)

At approximately 2-4 days of age, affected calves (those with two copies of the gene) will become lethargic, often lying on their side with their heads back. Unfortunately, diagnosis often involves laboratory investigation as these issues are caused by a defect in an enzyme that breaks down complex amino acids in the diet. It is the buildup of these amino acids that creates brain damage and urine odor.