Cow Diseases and Symptoms: Complete Guide With Pictures & Treatment (2025)

By the end of this section you will have learnt

1.)Most Common Cow Diseases and Their Symptoms

2.)Top 5 Viral Diseases of Cattle

3.)Bacterial Diseases of Cattle

4.)Parasitic & Tick-Borne Diseases

5.)Cow Diseases and Symptoms PDF (Free Download)

6.)Cow Diseases and Symptoms Pictures

7.)How to Diagnose Sick Cows Early

8.)Emergency First Aid for Sick Cattle

9.)How to Keep Your Herd Disease-Free

10.)FAQ on Cow Diseases and Symptoms

List of Common Cow Diseases and Their Symptoms

Mastitis

Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD)

East Coast Fever (ECF)

Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD)

Milk Fever

Anthrax

Bloat

Pneumonia

Brucellosis

Trypanosomiasis (Nagana)

Mastitis

Mastitis is one of the most common and costly dairy cow diseases, caused by bacterial infection of the udder tissue. It reduces milk production, affects milk quality, and can permanently damage the udder if not treated early.

Causes of Mastitis

Euthanasia is the practice of intentionally ending a life to eliminate pain and suffering.

Dirty milking environment	contaminated bedding, wet floors, muddy kraals.
Poor milking hygiene	unclean hands, towels, or milking machines
Udder injuries	cuts, bruises, or teat damage.
Incomplete milking	leaving milk in the udder encourages bacterial growth.
Cow immunity issues	stress, poor nutrition, or post-calving vulnerability.

Symptoms of Mastitis in Cows

Visible (Clinical Mastitis):

• Swollen, hot, or painful udder quarters

• Watery, clotted, thick, or bloody milk

• Reduced milk yield

• Cow avoids milking due to pain

• Fever, loss of appetite (in severe cases)

Hidden (Subclinical Mastitis):

There is no obvious signs, but Milk production drops, Milk becomes watery and Somatic cell count (SCC) rises (Subclinical mastitis is responsible for 70–80% of losses because farmers don’t notice it early.)

How to Treat Mastitis

Treatment should begin immediately to avoid permanent udder damage.

1. Intra-mammary antibiotics

   • Most common treatment (e.g., intramammary tubes).

   • Must follow withdrawal periods to keep milk safe.

2. Anti-inflammatory drugs

   • Reduce pain and swelling.

3. Frequent stripping

   • Helps remove bacteria and infected milk.

4. Vet diagnosis

   • Use California Mastitis Test (CMT) to identify which quarter is affected.

Prevention & Control of Mastitis

Clean cows’ bedding daily (dry, soft environment).

Wash and sanitize teats before and after milking.

Use separate clean towels for each cow.

Maintain and disinfect milking machines regularly.

Milk healthy cows first, infected cows last.

Provide balanced nutrition to boost immunity.

Dry cow therapy after lactation.

Milk Fever

Milk Fever (also called Hypocalcemia) is a metabolic disease that occurs when a cow’s blood calcium levels drop suddenly, usually within 24–72 hours after calving. It is common in high-producing dairy cows and can be fatal if not treated quickly.

Image of a Cow with Milk Fever By Dairy Verse

Causes of Milk Fever

Sudden high demand for calcium	during colostrum and early milk production
Poor mineral balance	in the diet before calving
Older cows	3rd lactation and above are more at risk
Low magnesium levels	which reduce the cow’s ability to absorb calcium
Feeding too much calcium pre-calving	, making the body “lazy” at mobilizing calcium

Symptoms of Milk Fever

Milk Fever progresses in three stages. Early recognition saves the cow.

Stage 1 (Mild)

• Restlessness

• Muscle tremors

• Stiff walking

• Loss of appetite

Stage 2 (Moderate) — Most Common

• Cow sits in a “S-shaped” neck position

• Cold ears and cold muzzle

• Weak heartbeat

• Cow cannot stand

• Dry muzzle, constipation

Stage 3 (Severe/Advanced) — Emergency

• Cow lies flat on her side

• No muscle control

• Low body temperature

• Risk of bloat or death within hours

How to Treat Milk Fever

Treatment must begin immediately with

1. IV Calcium Borogluconate (Most Effective)

   • Given slowly into the vein by a trained person or veterinarian.

   • Cow usually stands within 30 minutes.

2. Subcutaneous Calcium

   • Given under the skin in multiple sites for slower absorption.

3. Oral Calcium Gel or Drench

   • For mild cases or after IV treatment to prevent relapse.

4. Warm the cow

   • Use blankets or warm water bottles.

   • Prevents hypothermia during recovery.

Prevention and Control of Milk Fever

Low-calcium diet 3 weeks before calving(forces the body to learn how to mobilize calcium)

Add magnesium to pre-calving diet

Avoid feeding dairy meal too early before calving

Provide oral calcium immediately after calving

Balance rations with a nutritionist

Ensure cows are at the correct body condition score (BCS 3–3.5)

East Coast Fever

East Coast Fever (ECF) is one of the deadliest cattle diseases in East Africa, caused by a protozoan parasite (Theileria parva) transmitted through the brown ear tick. It kills thousands of cattle every year, especially calves and exotic breeds, and can destroy entire herds if not controlled early.

Causes of East Coast Fever

ECF spreads when infected brown ear ticks feed on cattle.

Tick bites on ears, tail switch, udder, dewlap & legs

Poor tick control on farms

Mixing animals from different farms without quarantine

Unvaccinated calves (highest risk)

Frequent grazing in tick-infested grasslands

The disease is common in warm, humid, high-tall-grass areas where ticks thrive.

Symptoms of East Coast Fever

Symptoms appear 10–18 days after the tick bite.

Early Symptoms

High fever (up to 41°C)

Swollen lymph nodes (especially parotid glands behind the ear)

Loss of appetite

Lethargy / weakness

Progressive Symptoms

Coughing

Difficulty breathing

Nasal discharge

Watery eyes

Weight loss

Critical/Advanced Stage

Severe respiratory distress

Cow collapses and cannot stand

“Pneumonia-like” signs as lungs fill with fluid

Death within 3–7 days if untreated

How to Treat East Coast Fever

Treatment must be done immediately once ECF is suspected.

1. Buparvaquone (Butalex or Bupaject)

• Most effective ECF drug

• Must be given by a vet

• Works best in the early stage

2. Oxytetracycline

• Used for mild cases or supportive treatment

3. Supportive Therapy

• Anti-inflammatories

• Multivitamins

• Fluid therapy

• Good feeding to boost immunity

Note ECF treatment is expensive because the drug itself is costly and late-stage survival is low.

Prevention and Control of East Coast Fever

Good prevention is cheaper than treatment.

Tick Control

Weekly or twice-weekly spraying with acaricides

Pour-on tick control

Hand-picking and inspecting calves regularly

Clearing tall grass around sheds

ECF Vaccine (Infection & Treatment Method – ITM)

Long-term protection

Given once in a lifetime

Best for calves 3–9 months

Must be administered by trained vets

Farm Management

Quarantine new cattle for 21 days

Keep exotic breeds in well-managed tick-free systems

Provide balanced nutrition to boost immunity

Anthrax

Do NOT open the carcass. Opening it exposes the bacteria to oxygen → the bacteria forms spores → the land becomes contaminated for decades.

Anthrax is one of the most dangerous bacterial diseases in livestock, caused by Bacillus anthracis. It leads to sudden death, spreads rapidly, and can infect humans. Because it is a notifiable disease, any suspected case must be reported to veterinary authorities immediately.

If you see a cow dead with blood leaking from openings → Anthrax is the first suspect.

Causes of Anthrax

Anthrax spreads from spores found in contaminated soil, water, feed, and carcasses. The spores can survive for 30–50 years, especially in areas with past outbreaks.

Grazing on contaminated pasture

Drinking water from infected streams or ponds

Opening or cutting carcasses of animals that died suddenly

Poor carcass disposal

Rainy seasons that bring spores to the surface

Symptoms of Anthrax in Cattle

Anthrax is unique because cows often die suddenly with very few signs. However, when symptoms appear, they include:

Early Symptoms (1–2 hours before death)

• Sudden high fever

• Difficulty breathing

• Trembling or staggering

• Swelling of the neck, chest, or belly

Classic Signs After Death

• Blood oozing from the nose, mouth, and anus

• Blood does NOT clot (remains dark and watery)

• Rapid bloating of the carcass

• No rigor mortis (body stays soft)

Treatment

Anthrax can be treated only if detected early, before death.

High-dose Penicillin

Oxytetracycline

Strict isolation of sick animals

Supportive care

Best Way to Protect Your Herd against Anthrax

Annual Vaccination

Use the Stern Anthrax vaccine

Given once per year

Cheapest and most effective prevention

Don’t vaccinate sick animals or those under antibiotic treatment

Proper Carcass Disposal

Burn or bury 2 meters deep

Apply lime on disposal site

Farm Biosecurity

Keep livestock away from old burial pits

Avoid grazing in known anthrax-prone areas during rainy seasons

Quarantine new animals for 14 days

Trypanasomiasis

Trypanosomiasis, also known as Nagana, is a deadly parasitic disease transmitted mainly by tsetse flies. It affects cattle, camels, goats, and wildlife, causing severe weight loss, anemia, low milk yield, and eventually death if untreated. It is common in tsetse-infested regions across Africa.

Causes of Trypanosomiasis

The disease is caused by parasitic protozoa

Trypanosoma congolense

Trypanosoma vivax

Trypanosoma brucei

Transmission occurs through Tsetse flies (main vector), Biting flies like tabanids and stable flies and sharing needles during treatment. The parasites multiply in the blood, lymph, and tissues, damaging major organs.

Symptoms of Trypanosomiasis in Cattle

Symptoms develop gradually over weeks.

Early Symptoms

• Fever

• Loss of appetite

• Depression / weakness

• Enlarged lymph nodes (especially behind the jaw)

Progressive Symptoms

• Severe weight loss (“eaten from inside”)

• Drop in milk yield

• Rough, dull hair coat

• Pale or yellowish mucous membranes

• Labored breathing

• Edema under the jaw (“bottle jaw”)

Final Stage

• Emaciation

• Recumbency (cow cannot stand)

• Organ failure

• Death if untreated

How to Treat Trypanosomiasis

Treatment must be fast and strategic.

Diminazene Aceturate

(Commercial names: Berenil®, Veriben®)

• Most commonly used drug

• Effective for T. congolense and T. vivax

Isometamidium Chloride

(Commercial names: Samorin®, Trypamidium®)

• Used for treatment and prevention

• Offers 2–3 months protection in high-risk areas

Homidium Salts

(Homidium Bromide or Homidium Chloride)

• Used in some regions for early/mild infections

Supportive Therapy

• Multivitamins

• Iron supplements

• Deworming

• Good nutrition

Drug resistance is increasing in some regions. A vet should guide treatment choice.

Prevention and Control of Nagana

Tsetse Fly Control

• Spraying cattle with pyrethroid-based acaricides

• Pour-ons (e.g., Cypermethrin, Deltamethrin)

• Insecticide-impregnated traps

• Bush clearing in grazing areas

• Keeping cattle away from tsetse zones in early morning & late afternoon (peak bite times)

Prophylactic Treatment

• Isometamidium given every 2–3 months in high-risk areas

Good Farm Management

• Quarantine new animals

• Avoid sharing needles

• Regular deworming & nutrition to boost immunity

Top 5 Viral Diseases of Cattle

FMD

Lumpy Skin Disease

Rabies

Rift Valley Fever

Bovine Viral Diarrhea (BVD)

Foot and Mouth Disease

Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) is one of the most contagious viral diseases affecting cattle, sheep, goats, and pigs. It spreads extremely fast, causes huge economic losses, and can wipe out livestock in entire regions if not controlled. Although adult cows rarely die, the disease causes severe productivity losses and high calf mortality.

Causes of Foot and Mouth Disease

FMD is caused by the FMD virus (FMDV), which has 7 serotypes. Infection spreads through

Direct contact with infected animals

Contaminated feed, water, or equipment

Milkers, workers, vehicles, shoes

Airborne transmission (up to 10 km in some climates)

Raw milk and meat from infected animals

Foot and Mouth Disease virus survives in soil, manure, milk, and the environment for long periods.

Symptoms of FMD in Cattle

Symptoms appear 2–14 days after exposure.

Mouth Lesions

• Drooling or excessive saliva (“ropey saliva”)

• Blisters on Tongue, Gums ,Lips ,Inside cheeks

• Mouth pain → difficulty eating → sudden drop in appetite

Foot Lesions

• Blisters around Hoof coronet ,Between the toes, Heel bulbs

• Lameness (cow refuses to walk)

• Swollen or painful feet

Milk & Production Changes

• Sudden drop in milk yield (up to 80%)

• Fever

• Depression / weakness

In Calves

• Heart damage (“tiger heart lesions”)

• Sudden death even without mouth or foot blisters

How to Treat Foot and Mouth Disease

No direct cure because FMD is viral. Treatment is supportive:

Supportive Care

• Anti-inflammatories to reduce pain

• Antibiotics to prevent secondary infections

• Fluids and energy supplements for calves

• Soft feed and plenty of water

Mouth & Foot Care

• Clean blisters with antiseptic

• Apply gentian violet, iodine, or aloe vera

• Keep animals on soft ground to reduce pain

Isolation

• Sick animals must be isolated immediately

• Healthy animals should not share water troughs or feeding points

Prevention & Control of FMD

Vaccination (Most Important)

Regular vaccination depending on region

Boosters required based on the circulating strains

Essential for dairy and beef herds

Movement Control

Quarantine new animals for 14–21 days

Limit livestock movement during outbreaks

Disinfect vehicles, shoes, and tools

Farm Biosecurity

Footbaths at entrance

Clean milking equipment

Separate sick and healthy animals

Restrict visitors to the farm

Lumpy Skin Disease

Image of a Cow with LMD by ThisFarmer Carson

Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) is a highly infectious viral disease caused by the Capripoxvirus. It affects cattle of all ages and breeds and is spread mainly by biting insects. The disease causes painful skin nodules, fever, reduced milk yield, and severe economic loss in dairy and beef herds.

Causes of Lumpy Skin Disease

LSD spreads through

Biting insects – mosquitoes, flies, ticks

Direct contact between cattle

Contaminated tools, needles, halters, ropes

Semen from infected bulls

Movement of infected animals

The virus survives long in scabs, skin, and the environment.

Image of a Calf infected by LSD by Demi Farms

Symptoms of Lumpy Skin Disease

Symptoms appear 6–14 days after infection.

Skin Nodules (Main Sign)

Hard, round lumps 1–7 cm on Neck , Back ,Legs ,Udder & teats ,Face & muzzle. Nodules may become deep wounds (sit-fasts)

General Symptoms

• High fever

• Loss of appetite

• Swollen lymph nodes

• Lethargy / weakness

• Runny nose and eyes

Effects on Milk & Reproduction

• Sharp drop in milk production

• Mastitis due to teat lesions

• Infertility in bulls

• Abortions in pregnant cows

Severe Cases

• Painful walking (lameness)

• Deep ulcers with secondary infections

• Maggot infestation if untreated

How to Treat Lumpy Skin Disease

There is no direct cure because LSD is viral. Treatment focuses on:

Supportive Care

• Pain and fever reducers (NSAIDs)

• Antibiotics to prevent secondary bacterial infections

• Good feeding, water, and shelter

Wound Management

• Clean wounds with iodine or chlorhexidine

• Apply wound sprays (aluminium spray, oxytetracycline spray)

• Keep flies away to prevent maggots

Isolation

• Isolate sick animals immediately

• Disinfect all shared equipment

Prevention and Control of Lumpys Skin Disease

Vaccination (Most Important)

Use the LSD vaccine (e.g., Neethling strain vaccine)

Annual vaccination recommended

Boosters may be needed in outbreak areas

Vector Control

Regular spraying with pyrethroids

Use pour-ons (cypermethrin, deltamethrin)

Clear bushy areas and stagnant water

Use fly traps

Farm Management

Quarantine new animals for 14–21 days

Do not share needles

Maintain hygiene in cattle sheds

Rabies

Rabies is a fatal viral disease that affects the brain and nervous system of all warm-blooded animals, including cattle, goats, sheep, dogs, and humans. Once symptoms appear, rabies has a 100% death rate. Because it is zoonotic, humans can also get infected.

Causes of Rabies in Cattle

Rabies is caused by the Rabies lyssavirus and spreads through:

• Bites from infected dogs (most common in East Africa)

• Bites from wild animals such as:

  • Jackals

  • Foxes

  • Bats

  • Mongoose

• Saliva entering wounds, scratches, or mucous membranes

• Licking of open wounds by infected animals

Once the virus reaches the brain, symptoms begin — and death follows rapidly.

Symptoms of Rabies in Cattle

Symptoms appear 2 weeks to several months after a bite, depending on where the cow was bitten.

Rabies occurs in two forms:

Furious Rabies (Aggressive Form)

The cow becomes abnormally excitable

Sudden aggression

Charging at people or animals

Excessive bellowing

Restlessness

Attempting to bite or attack

Increased sensitivity to light and sound

Foaming at the mouth

This form is highly dangerous to humans.

Dumb/Paralytic Rabies (Most Common in Cattle)

Drooping head

Difficulty swallowing

Paralysis of the hind legs

Cow stands with legs spread wide

Loss of coordination

Depression or acting “drunk”

Progressive paralysis → coma → death

This is the form most farmers see. Most cows die within 2–5 days after symptoms begin.

How to Treat Rabies in Cattle

There is NO cure. Once symptoms appear, treatment is not effective.The animal will die. What to do instead

Isolate the cow immediately

Do NOT let anyone touch saliva or mucous

Call a vet or livestock officer

Notify local public health teams

If a person has been licked, scratched, or bitten by the cow → immediate hospital visit for post-exposure vaccine

Never slaughter or eat a cow suspected of rabies.

Prevention and Control of Rabies

Vaccination

• Rabies vaccine is the main protection

• Given annually in high-risk areas

• Very important for:

  • Dairy cows

  • Bulls

  • Calves

  • Animals near wildlife zones

  • Farms with many dogs

Control Dogs & Wildlife

• Vaccinate all farm dogs yearly

• Reduce stray dog interactions

• Secure cattle at night

• Avoid grazing near wildlife corridors

After a Bite

If a cow is bitten by a suspected rabid animal:

1. Wash the bite wound with lots of water + soap

2. Call a vet immediately

3. Give post-exposure rabies vaccine (yes, cattle can receive it)

4. Monitor for 3–6 months

Early vaccination after a bite can save the cow before symptoms begin.

Rift Valley Fever

Rift Valley Fever (RVF) is a highly infectious viral disease that affects cattle, sheep, goats, camels, and humans.

It spreads rapidly during heavy rains and flooding when mosquito populations explode. RVF is zoonotic humans can get infected making it a serious public health concern.

Causes of Rift Valley Fever

RVF is caused by the Rift Valley Fever virus (RVFV) and spreads through

Mosquito bites (main transmission route)

Contact with blood, tissues, or aborted fetuses of infected animals

Handling raw meat, placentas, or assisting births

Contaminated water and mud after flooding

Slaughtering or skinning sick animals

The virus survives in mosquito eggs for years and emerges after heavy rains.

Symptoms of RVF in Cattle

Symptoms vary by age and severity.

Adult Cattle

• High fever

• Sudden drop in milk production

• Nasal discharge

• Weakness and lethargy

• Abortion storms (pregnant cows abort 80–100%)

• Diarrhea (sometimes bloody)

• Jaundice (yellow gums/eyes)

Calves (Severe Form)

• Very high fever

• Rapid breathing

• Weakness

• Sudden death within 24–48 hours

• Mortality rate can reach 70–90%

How to Treat Rift Valley Fever

There is NO direct cure, as RVF is a viral disease.

Treatment focuses on supportive care

Anti-inflammatories for fever and pain

Fluid support for dehydration

Antibiotics to prevent secondary bacterial infections

Clean environment to reduce stress

Provide high-energy feeds

Isolation is important because the blood and tissues of infected animals are contagious.

Prevention and Control of Rift Valley Fever

Vaccination

• The most effective protection

• Use the RVF livestock vaccine (live or inactivated)

• Vaccinate animals before rainy seasons

• Do NOT vaccinate pregnant cows with live vaccine

Mosquito Control

• Spray cattle with insecticides (pyrethroids)

• Remove stagnant water around sheds

• Use pour-ons and insect repellents

• Trim tall grass near watering points

Farm Biosecurity

• Avoid slaughtering sick animals

• Wear gloves when handling births or abortions

• Burn or bury aborted fetuses and placenta

• Quarantine new animals

Movement Control

• RVF outbreaks lead to government bans on:

  • Livestock movement

  • Slaughter

  • Milk sale

  • Market activities

Bovine Viral Diarrhea

Bovine Viral Diarrhea (BVD) is a highly contagious viral disease that affects cattle of all ages. It weakens the immune system, causes reproductive losses, diarrhea, respiratory disease, and can lead to death in calves.

BVD is a major economic disease in dairy and beef herds.

Causes of BVD

BVD is caused by the Bovine Viral Diarrhea Virus (BVDV), which spreads through

Direct contact with infected cattle

PI animals (Persistently Infected calves – major spreaders)

Contaminated feed, water, equipment

Semen from infected bulls

Fetal infection during pregnancy

Shared needles and instruments

Persistently infected animals shed the virus every second of their life.

Symptoms of BVD in Cattle

Symptoms vary depending on age, immune status, and virus strain.

Acute BVD (Most Common Form)

• Fever

• Watery diarrhea

• Nasal discharge

• Coughing

• Loss of appetite

• Depression

• Dehydration

• Drop in milk production

Mucosal Disease (Deadly Form)

Occurs when a PI animal gets superinfected with a related virus strain.

Symptoms include:

• Severe mouth ulcers

• Lesions on gums, tongue, muzzle

• Erosions inside nostrils

• Bloody diarrhea

• Severe dehydration

• Pain and rapid weight loss

• Death within days

This is the most fatal form of BVD.

Reproductive Problems

BVD is notorious for causing:

• Early embryonic death

• Infertility

• Repeat breeders

• Abortions

• Stillbirths

• Weak or deformed calves (“dummy calves”)

• Calves born blind or unable to stand

Persistently Infected (PI) Calves

If a pregnant cow is infected during early gestation:

• The calf becomes PI (infected for life)

• Sheds massive amounts of virus

• Appears small, weak, rough-coated

• Poor growth

• Often dies young

• Major source of outbreaks

How to Treat BVD

There is no direct cure for the virus. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing secondary infection.

Supportive Treatment

• Fluids & electrolytes for diarrhea

• Anti-inflammatories for fever

• Antibiotics to control secondary bacterial infections

• Good nutrition and clean housing

• Isolate sick animals

Persistently infected animals should be culled to protect the herd.

Prevention and Control of BVD

Vaccination

Vaccination is the single most effective method.

• BVD vaccines available as killed or modified-live

• Vaccinate heifers before breeding

• Boosters required annually or bi-annually

• Protects unborn calves

Biosecurity

• Test all new animals for BVD before purchase

• Quarantine newcomers for 14–21 days

• Never share needles or equipment

• Use AI semen from BVD-free bulls

PI Calf Testing & Removal

• Screen the herd for PI animals using ear notch or blood tests

• Eliminate PI animals immediately

• Test newborn calves in infected herds

Bacterial Diseases of Cattle

Anthrax

Brucellosis

Black Quarter (Blackleg)

Leptospirosis

Parasitic & Tick-Borne Diseases

East Coast Fever

Anaplasmosis

Babesiosis

Helminths (Worms)

Cow Diseases and Symptoms PDF (Free Download)

Down Load Here >>>>

Cow Diseases and Symptoms Pictures

Trypanosomiasis, brucellosis (brucella abortus) , anthrax (bacillus anthracis , rabies and foot rot

How to Diagnose Sick Cows Early

kws removed snake compensation dating from 2020, if your case is older than 2020, it's when you can be compensated.-Faith

Go find anti venom from the nearest vet .looks like cytotoxic venom which causes the flesh to rot leading to necrosis.The sooner the better-Githinji

Early diagnosis of sick cows is crucial for preventing severe diseases and reducing economic losses. Farmers should observe animals twice daily for changes in behavior, appetite, and movement. Key warning signs include reduced feeding, isolation from the herd, drooping ears, rough hair coat, fever, rapid breathing, coughing, nasal discharge, and diarrhea. Monitoring milk yield helps detect illnesses like mastitis or metabolic disorders early. Check for lameness, swollen joints, or difficulty walking. Inspect the eyes, gums, and nose for paleness or discharge, which signal infection or anemia. Regular temperature checks and early veterinary consultation ensure timely treatment.

Emergency First Aid for Sick Cattle

Emergency first aid helps stabilize a sick cow before a veterinarian arrives. Begin by isolating the animal in a quiet, clean, and well-ventilated area to reduce stress. Check the vital signs temperature, pulse, and breathing to assess severity. Provide clean water and keep the cow warm or shaded depending on weather. If dehydrated, offer oral electrolytes. Treat visible wounds with antiseptic and control bleeding using clean pressure. For bloating, gently walk the cow and relieve gas if trained. Avoid giving random drugs; instead, record symptoms for the vet. Quick action prevents deterioration and improves survival chances.

How to Keep Your Herd Disease-Free

Keeping your herd disease-free requires strong biosecurity and consistent management. Start by vaccinating all animals according to schedule and quarantining new or returning cattle for 14–21 days before mixing them with the herd. Maintain clean housing, dry bedding, and proper drainage to reduce parasite and bacterial growth. Provide balanced nutrition and clean water to boost immunity. Implement vector control by spraying against ticks, flies, and mosquitoes. Avoid sharing needles, equipment, or feed troughs between sick and healthy animals. Regular deworming, hoof care, and daily observation help detect problems early, ensuring a healthier, more productive herd.

FAQ on Cow Diseases and Symptoms

What are the first signs that a cow is sick?

Early signs include reduced appetite, low milk production, dull eyes, fever, isolation from the herd, coughing, diarrhea, and unusual behavior. Always check temperature, breathing rate, and movement.

FootRot is cows is caused by Dampness ensure your shed is well drained and dry. To treat the cow with Footrot use soda ash by washing between the hoofs

Image of a Cow affected by FootRot

Which cow diseases spread the fastest?

Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), Lumpy Skin Disease, and Rift Valley Fever spread rapidly across herds, especially in unhygienic or tick-infested environments.

What is the most common disease in dairy cows?

Mastitis is the most common, especially in high-yielding dairy cows. It causes swollen udders, watery milk, clots, and reduced milk production.

What causes Lumpy Skin Disease in cows?

Lumpy Skin Disease is caused by a virus spread mainly by biting insects like mosquitoes and ticks. It leads to skin nodules, fever, and reduced milk output.

How can I tell if my cow has East Coast Fever (ECF)?

Key symptoms include fever, swollen lymph nodes, labored breathing, loss of appetite, and rapid weight loss. ECF is deadly if not treated quickly.

Can cow diseases spread to humans?

Yes. Diseases like Anthrax, Brucellosis, and Leptospirosis are zoonotic and can infect people through milk, meat, manure, or handling sick animals.

What is the best way to prevent cow diseases?

Prevention includes vaccination, tick control, routine deworming, clean housing, proper nutrition, and quarantine for new or sick animals.

Image of a cow infected by Streptothricosis

Why does my cow have diarrhea?

Diarrhea can be caused by parasites, bacterial infections, poor feed quality, sudden diet changes, or viral diseases like BVD. Severe cases require veterinary attention.

What is the normal temperature for a healthy cow?

A healthy cow’s temperature ranges 38°C–39°C. Anything above this indicates fever or infection.

When should I call a vet?

Call a vet immediately if a cow has persistent fever, can’t stand, has bloody diarrhea, shows breathing difficulty, produces abnormal milk, or stops eating for more than 24 hours.