Symptoms of Tetanus in Cattle

Tetanus is a fatal disease caused by the bacteria Clostridium tetani. A cow is typically infected with tetanus when its skin is punctured with an infectious object, such as a rusty barbed-wire fence. A vaccine can be given to protect the cattle against tetanus. In its early stages tetanus is treatable; however, once the disease has set into the animal's system there is no cure. Certain signs and symptoms need to be watched for---if your cattle exhibit any of these it should be seen be a veterinarian right away.

  1. Muscle Stiffness

    • General muscle contractions, spasms, tremors and stiffness are a common sign of tetanus in cattle. The first sign of muscle problems caused by tetanus is typically stiffness and reluctance to move. This is followed by contractions, spasms and finally tremors. A common nickname for tetanus is "Lockjaw," this is because the cow's jaw muscles will often be tightened, sometimes to the point where it cannot open its jaw.

    Straight Tail

    • Straight tail and stiff legs are sure signs of tetanus. The first signs of such symptoms are often noticed when the cow holds its tail straight out. The animal will move with an unsteady gait and may not bend its legs as much as normal when moving.

    Third Eyelid

    • The third eyelid might begin to protrude when the cow has its eyes open. The first sign of this symptom can be noticed when the cow is relaxed, holding its head up. The third eyelid with be hovering over the open eye. Once the symptoms worsen the third eyelid will protrude nearly all of the time which the cow spends with its eyes open.

    Fatal

    • Fatal signs include severe bloating, collapse and straight legs. The first of these symptoms to appear will be bloating; this occurs when the cow's rumen ceases function. This might be followed by the cow collapsing and lying on its side with its legs protruding straight outwards. At this stage the tetanus is likely no longer curable and the animal will most likely need to be euthanized by a veterinarian.

    Warning

    • If you notice any of the above mentioned symptoms, call your veterinarian right away. Tetanus is not only lethal but the symptoms are painful for the animal to endure.