BVD Testing Young Calves for the Scottish BVD Eradication Scheme

We are currently seeing an increase in submissions of very young calves for BVD testing, largely as a result of Phase 6 of the Scottish Government’s BVD Eradication Scheme.

To help avoid unexpected or unnecessary testing costs, we would like to highlight the most appropriate and cost‑effective testing options for young calves.

Testing Options for Calves Under 4 Weeks of Age

• Blood testing:
  The only validated blood test for calves under 4 weeks old is an individual BVD PCR test, which costs £28.60 (ex VAT) per sample.

• Tissue testing:
  BVD tissue tag testing can be carried out from birth and remains a practical and cost‑effective option for early testing of calves.

   

What This Means for You

If you are planning to test newborn or very young calves, you may wish to consider organising BVD tissue tags in advance. This can help keep testing costs to a minimum while remaining compliant with the BVD eradication requirements.

Please speak to your vet if you are unsure which option is most suitable for your herd.

Posted by SRUC Veterinary Services on 21/07/2026