Spring calving triggers downer cow warning

There are a number of potential causes, including:

Physical injuries

During calving a cow’s obturator nerve may be crushed between her pelvis and the calf. 

A cow with calving paralysis will appear bright and alert but have no control over one or both of her hind legs. 

The only treatment is careful nursing and time; anti-inflammatory drugs are useful if used early.

Calving paralysis needs to be distinguished from injuries such as dislocated hips and back injuries.

Metabolic diseases

Metabolic diseases can be distinguished from physical injuries by the presence of other clinical signs.

Milk fever is seen in older, high producing, fatter cows. A cow with milk fever will show fine muscle tremors, staggering and weakness.

Grass tetany is seen during times of stress such as bad weather on short grass dominated pastures. An affected cow will become aggressive, excited, go down and paddle and convulse violently. 

Both milk fever and grass tetany should be treated urgently with 4 in 1; additional calcium or magnesium may be needed.

Pregnancy toxaemia or acetonemia is an energy deficiency problem seen in cows losing weight or calving in poor condition. Behavioural signs will be seen before the cow goes down. 

Blood poisoning

Mastitis, metritis or any other generalised infection causes toxaemia or blood poisoning. 

A cow with toxaemia will appear depressed, with a dry nose and sunken eyes. 

It is important to check the udders of downer cows for mastitis, and the uterus for tears or severe infections.

Care of the downer cow

Prompt treatment with appropriate veterinary drugs and good nursing are the keys to successfully treating a downer cow. 

Cows should only be nursed if they have a realistic chance of recovery. Otherwise they should be humanely destroyed.

For further advice contact your veterinarian or DEDJTR Veterinary or Animal Health Officer, or your NSW LLS.