When using visual appraisal, one of the most important signals of illness is appetite suppression. Feed consumption of cattle exposed to respiratory disease begins to decrease about 48 hours before increased body temperature is observed.
The most effective time to observe the feeding behavior of cattle is when they are fed each day. Unfortunately, it is difficult to monitor daily feeding patterns of grazing cattle or calves on self feeders. In this case, observe signs of gut fill. Cattle that have not been eating and drinking properly appear gaunt, and their abdomens often bounce when they walk. Rapid weight or body condition loss also indicates illness.
Other later occurring signs of illness include labored breathing, deep coughing, eye and nasal discharge, bloody diarrhea, or depression. Depression is noted as drooping head and ears, excessively slow movement, lagging behind the rest of the herd, and reluctance to get up when approached.
These symptoms occur after sick cattle have gone off feed and their rectal temperature has risen. Therefore, it is extremely important to thoroughly observe cattle daily to catch illness early and begin an effective treatment protocol.
Vaccination can produce signs of illness in some situations. Discuss expected effects of specific vaccines on cattle before administration to distinguish between an animal that is ill or one that is suffering a temporary side effect of vaccination.
Examining cattle manure can also help identify sick animals. Loose manure with large feed particles, mucus, or blood can indicate illness or injury. While it may be difficult to identify a specific animal in grazing situations, producers can at least be alerted to watch the herd closer. Cattle often defecate during handling, so plan to observe manure during this time.
Identifying Injured Cattle
Injuries in cattle may be minor or severe. Some injuries are relatively easy to detect upon observation, such as injuries that result in lameness or inability to stand up or walk (a non-ambulatory or “downer” animal). These types of injuries can prevent marketing an animal or result in market discounts. Other injuries are more subtle, including bruising and internal organ injuries such as hardware disease. Suspect these types of injuries when cattle display behavioral changes such as appetite changes or reluctance to move.
Examine the animal’s environment for potential hazards or conditions that may have caused an injury. Horns contribute to bruising in animals housed together. Injuries to breeding animals often occur during the breeding season as a result of mounting behavior. Inadequate feed trough space increases competition for feed and chance of injury. Sharp objects such as wire and nails in pastures or handling areas also contribute to cattle injuries.
Inspect cattle closely during feeding and animal handling to identify injuries that are not easily seen in pasture settings. Foot injuries, eye injuries, mouth injuries, minor lacerations (cuts), hematomas (blood vessel rupture and blood pooling under the hide), penis injuries, and biting insect damage are examples of injuries that sometimes require close inspection to identify. By identifying injuries during animal handling, animals can be treated while restrained.
Conclusions
Identify and manage sick or injured cattle promptly. When cattle go “down,” it is often because their initial problems were ignored. A treatment plan should be in place once sick or injured cattle are identified. Consult with a veterinarian to develop this plan. Then follow the plan closely.
Seek out veterinary advice for situations that may require treatments not outlined in standard herd health plans.
