Introduction

Ensuring the health and wellbeing of livestock is a critical part of modern farming. This is particularly important for cattle, as a healthy cow ensures optimal milk production, fertility, and overall farm productivity. In this article, we will explore various indicators and behavioral clues that can help determine if a cow is healthy. These include behavioral signs, physical examinations, and specific health monitoring techniques.

1. Behavioral Indicators

The behavior of a cow can often indicate underlying health issues. If a cow is not eating its normal amount or is hanging back from its herd mates, it may be a sign of illness or discomfort. Being overly responsive or less responsive than normal can also be an indication that something is amiss.

1.1 Demeanour

A healthy cow will behave normally around its herd and show no signs of stress or discomfort. Any changes in behavior can indicate an underlying issue. This includes changes in eating habits, social behavior, and overall responsiveness.

2. Physical Indicators

2.1 Temperature

Temperature is a crucial indicator of a cow's health. A normal adult cow temperature is around 38.5°C (101.5°F). Any temperature over 39.5°C (103°F) may indicate an infectious or inflammatory process. A rectal thermometer can be used to take a cow's temperature, which should be taken while the cow is restrained in a crush.

2.2 Respiratory Rate

The respiratory rate of an adult cow should be between 26 and 50 breaths per minute. This can be assessed by watching the cow's ribs move in and out over a period of 15 seconds and then multiplying by 4. Variations in ambient temperature and stress levels can affect the respiratory rate, but the adult cow's rate should still fall within the normal range.

2.3 Body Condition Score

Accurately Body Condition Scoring a cow is a valuable way to monitor its health and nutritional status. Body Condition Scoring involves gauging the level of fat cover over specific areas of the cow and assigning a score between 1 and 5, with half or quarter scores sometimes used. This system helps farmers ensure that their cows maintain an ideal body condition, which is critical for milk production and fertility.

2.4 Heart Rate

An adult cow's heart rate should be between 48 and 84 beats per minute. A heart rate outside this range may indicate pain or a health issue. A stethoscope can be used to listen to the cow's heart rate, which should be assessed behind the elbow on the left side of the cow's chest.

2.5 Digestive System

2.5.1 Ruminating and Cudding

Normal cows will spend 12-14 hours a day lying down and 3-4 hours eating. They will also spend around 6 hours a day chewing cud, depending on their diet. Observing these behaviors can help determine if a cow is digesting food properly.

2.5.2 Rumen Fill

The rumen in the cow's abdomen is predominantly on the left side. If the cow is off her feed, the rumen will appear as a sharp triangle as it is empty. As the rumen fills, the space between the last rib and the pelvis will expand. An outward protrusion may indicate bloat, and seeking veterinary advice is recommended.

2.5.3 Faecal Consistency

Faeces should vary with the cow's diet. Extremely firm faeces can indicate metabolic problems, while very liquid faeces with a foul odor or blood may indicate intestinal disease. Black faeces can be a sign of bleeding in the stomach, representing digested blood, and fresh blood in the faeces indicates bleeding from the large intestine or may be due to trauma such as rectal palpation or artificial insemination.

2.6 Reproductive Tract

2.6.1 Vaginal Discharge

Vaginal discharge should be clear and colourless. Cloudy, bloody, or foul-smelling discharge indicates a need for examination. Vets use a scoring system for classifying vaginal discharge from 0 to 3 based on its consistency, color, and odor.

2.6.2 Calving

Normal calving and intervention guidelines are detailed in relevant bulletins. If a cow shows signs of distress during calving, veterinary assistance should be sought immediately.

2.6.3 Udder Condition

Mastitis is classified as mild, moderate, or severe. Mild mastitis involves changes in milk consistency, while moderate and severe mastitis involve changes in the udder, including swelling, reddening, pain, or heat. Severe systemic effects such as a fever, reduced feed intake, or altered behavior are also signs of severe mastitis.

2.7 Urinary Tract

Cow urine can be used as a diagnostic tool. Urine samples can be taken mid-stream and tested for ketosis or pH levels. Acidic urine in a lactating cow may indicate diseases such as a left displaced abomasum.

2.8 Skin and Coat

Patches of hair loss, reddening, crusting, or excess scurf and dandruff can indicate skin disease. A detailed bulletin is available for skin disease in cattle.

2.9 Respiratory Tract

2.9.1 Nasal Discharge

Clear nasal discharge may be normal, but cloudy nasal discharge usually indicates an infectious disease. Bloody nasal discharge may be due to trauma in the nose or represent upper or lower respiratory tract disease.

2.9.2 Respiratory Rate

Respiratory rate can increase with stress or pain and may also indicate respiratory disease. Cows may pant to increase heat loss and should not pant at over 100 breaths per minute in hot conditions.

2.9.3 Respiratory Noise

Increased noise on inspiration or expiration can indicate a disease process in the respiratory tract.

2.10 Eye Condition

2.10.1 Eye Position

A sunken eyeball may indicate dehydration, but it can also be normal in very thin animals who have lost fat behind the eye. Excessive sunken eyes may represent severe dehydration.

2.10.2 Eye Discharge and Redness

Discharge from the eye is usually noticed as wetness or staining on the cheek below the eye and is often a sign of inflammation. A closed eye, especially when the animal is outside, can indicate eye pain. The conjunctiva surrounding the eye should be a pale pink color; reddened conjunctiva may indicate inflammation. Any defects or cloudiness on the surface of the eye need prompt veterinary attention.

2.11 Lameness

Cows should walk with a flat back, bear weight evenly on all four limbs, and have hind limbs that track up fully and step behind where the forelimbs left the ground. Any shortened stride, reduced weight bearing, or inability to keep up with the rest of the herd should be examined. The Dairyco mobility scoring system is used to assess lameness, with cows scoring from 0 to 3 based on their level of pain.

2.12 Urinary and Oedema

Udder oedema is common in heifers and can cause damage to the suspensory ligaments. Heart disease, wire penetration, and bacterial infection can cause oedema, primarily under the chin and brisket.

Conclusion

Monitoring the health of cattle is essential for maintaining productivity and preventing the spread of disease. By paying attention to both behavioral and physical indicators, farmers can quickly identify and address any health issues. Regular health assessments and understanding key indicators can help ensure the wellbeing of the entire herd.