As a cattle farmer, maintaining the health of your herd is critical for both productivity and profitability. Early detection of illness allows you to isolate sick animals, administer treatment, and prevent disease from spreading throughout the herd. In this guide, we’ll explore common signs of illness in cattle, the most prevalent diseases, and the steps to identify and manage sick cattle.
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What Are the General Signs of Illness in Cattle?
There are several key indicators that suggest your cattle may not be feeling well. Keep an eye out for changes in the following:
- Appetite: Decreased or loss of appetite may signal illness, leading to weight loss.
- Attitude: Sick cattle may be less alert, sluggish, or isolate themselves from the herd.
- Appearance: A dull coat, droopy ears, discharges from the eyes or nose, and a hunched posture are signs of sickness.
- Activity Level: Reduced activity, more time lying down, stiffness, or lameness can indicate illness.
- Vital Signs: Elevated temperature, increased heart rate, and rapid breathing may all point to health issues.
These general symptoms should be monitored daily, along with specific signs of common cattle diseases.
Common Cattle Diseases and Their Symptoms
Digestive Diseases
1. Bovine Viral Diarrhea (BVD)
A highly contagious disease spread through contact with bodily fluids.
- Watery, bloody diarrhea
- High fever (104-106°F)
- Decreased appetite and weight loss
- Skin lesions on the muzzle and teats
2. Johne’s Disease
A chronic bacterial infection affecting the intestines.
- Intermittent, non-bloody diarrhea
- Weight loss despite normal appetite early on
- Swelling (bottle jaw) from protein loss
3. Hardware Disease
Caused by ingesting sharp objects that can pierce the stomach lining.
- Arched back due to pain
- Low appetite and rumen contractions
- Labored breathing if the lungs are affected
- Fever and dehydration
Respiratory Diseases
4. Bovine Respiratory Disease (BRD)
Infection of the respiratory tract caused by viruses or bacteria.
- High fever (104-107°F)
- Painful cough and nasal discharge
- Rapid, labored breathing
5. Bovine Respiratory Syncytial Virus (BRSV)
A highly contagious virus affecting the lungs.
- Sudden high fever (104-108°F)
- Painful cough, wheezing, and shallow breathing
- Frothy nasal discharge
6. Tuberculosis
A bacterial infection that affects the lungs and lymph nodes.
- Chronic coughing
- Gradual muscle wasting
- Low appetite and fever
Reproductive Diseases
7. Brucellosis
A bacterial disease spread through aborted fetuses and birthing fluids.
- Abortions in late pregnancy
- Stillborn or weak calves
- Retained placenta and infertility
8. Leptospirosis
Spread through urine, this bacterial infection can cause:
- Abortions and premature calves
- Infertility
- Calves born underweight or weak
Lameness & Limb Issues
9. Foot Rot
A bacterial infection causing lameness.
- Swelling above the hoof
- Foul odor
- Limping and reluctance to walk
Steps to Identify Sick Cattle
1. Scan the Environment
Check for conditions that could increase the risk of illness:
- Standing water or mud, which can harbor bacteria.
- Manure management – improper handling raises infection risk.
- Feed cleanliness – contaminated feed can lead to illness.
2. Assess Herd Dynamics
Observe herd behavior for signs of sickness:
- Cattle that are less active, isolate themselves, or have reduced interest in food could be ill.
3. Examine Appearance
Look for physical signs of sickness:
- Hair coat – a dull, rough coat or skin lesions can indicate illness.
- Discharges – cloudy eyes, nasal discharge, and dirty hindquarters are symptoms of infection.
4. Check Vital Signs
Take the animal’s temperature, pulse, and respiration rates:
- Temperature: Over 103°F suggests infection.
- Heart rate: More than 100 beats per minute signals distress.
- Breathing: More than 50 breaths per minute could indicate pneumonia.
5. Listen to Breathing
Use a stethoscope to detect lung sounds:
- Wheezing or crackling suggests pneumonia.
- Moist coughs could indicate lower airway infections.
6. Check for Lameness
Observe the cattle’s movement to spot limping or stiffness:
- Swelling or injury around joints.
- Overgrown hooves causing difficulty walking.
7. Examine Udders & Genitals
Check for swelling, heat, or discharges:
- Swollen udders or painful lumps may indicate mastitis.
- Vaginal discharge could signal a reproductive infection.
8. Feel Lymph Nodes & Joints
Swollen lymph nodes and stiff joints can indicate an infection.
- Sub iliac lymph nodes (below the hip bones) and prescapular nodes (above the shoulder joint) can be swollen during infection.
9. Conduct Lab Tests
If illness is suspected, contact your veterinarian to run tests:
- Blood tests to check white cell counts and electrolyte levels.
- Fecal tests to check for parasites.
- Nasal swabs to identify respiratory pathogens.
Isolate Sick Cattle
Isolate sick cattle immediately to prevent the disease from spreading:
- Provide clean bedding, shelter, and access to clean food and water.
- Monitor the isolated cattle multiple times per day.
When to Call the Vet
Contact your veterinarian immediately if you observe the following:
- Severe diarrhea or difficulty breathing
- Extreme lethargy or weight loss
- Persistent fever above 103°F
- Abnormal reproductive signs, such as abortions
Prevention of Cattle Disease
Preventing illness is always better than treating it. Here are some proactive measures:
- Quarantine new arrivals to prevent introducing disease.
- Vaccinate regularly against common cattle diseases.
- Ensure clean environments, including dry calving areas.
- Maintain good nutrition and monitor feed for spoilage.
- Rotate pastures to prevent overgrazing and manage parasites.
Work with your vet to develop a herd-specific health and vaccination plan.
Conclusion
By knowing the symptoms of common cattle diseases and using preventative measures, you can detect health problems early and keep your herd healthy. When needed, consult your veterinarian to ensure prompt diagnosis and effective treatment. Healthy cattle mean a more productive and profitable operation.