Jerry Roberson, DVM

Maybe this doesn't really fit "common" but it is always interesting to hear about cases. The main thing about rabies in cattle (and other species) is that signs are quite variable and inconsistent. Certain signs should be "red flags" for bovine rabies. Oftentimes cattle with rabies will have some history of hindlimb ataxia, weakness, or paralysis (this in itself is typical of many bovine diseases but for cattle exhibiting these signs, rabies should be considered).

The most common reason for anemia in the small ruminant is internal parasitism. Hemonchus contortus (the barber pole worm) is a voracious bloodsucker that typically resides in the abomasum. The condition may occur in both young stock and adults alike. With the ever increasing issue of parasite resistance, practitioners will be faced with the severely anemic small ruminant. Providing that there are no other serious disease conditions, these cases can have successful outcomes.

BSE is defined as a slow developing neurodegenerative disease of cattle that begins insidiously with subtle signs progressing to terminal recumbency. This is a cerebral disease thus signs are consistent with abnormal mentation. Slight changes in behavior include increased apprehension and tactile and auditory hyperesthesia.

Mastitis is considered one of the most costly diseases of dairy cattle and one of the most common reasons for antibiotic treatment on dairy farms. There are numerous treatments (both antibiotic and non-antibiotic) for clinical mastitis.

The development and effectiveness of the standard milking time hygiene practices and dry cow therapy were established in the 1960's. Because of the effectiveness of these practices, mastitis has evolved on many farms to primarily environmental rather than contagious pathogens. The purpose of this article is to perform a literature review (especially trying to find studies published after the year 2000) as to the effectiveness of the various mastitis control practices in today's progressive dairy farm.

The majority of food animal veterinarians do their best to make the most appropriate decisions for their clients' livestock. But there are times when we simply don't know what the best decision is. Likewise, there are times when a "new" procedure or "new" product is suggested by the client or one of our colleagues that we are unaware of or have not tried. Problem solving requires the use of multiple sources to educate oneself about the particular problem.

Dealing with a sick cria and an anxious client can be quite daunting at times. This task becomes less daunting when one understands the main problems and how to manage them. Neonatal crias are typically admitted to the UT College of veterinary medicine due to prematurity/weakness/inability to stand, suspected or real failure of passive transfer (FPT), and septicemia.