Signs of Rabies in Cattle

Rabies is a neurological disease that is present among mammal populations the world over. According to the World Health Organization, only a handful of locations are completely free of rabies. These include Australia, Japan, New Zealand and several Western European nations. Diagnosing rabies is incredibly difficult, as many symptoms are highly variable until the later stages. Death is the inevitable end result once these symptoms manifest.

  1. Progressive Paralysis

    • One of the most common and apparent symptoms of rabies in cattle is a rapid and extensive paralysis. According to the Canadian Veterinary Journal, in its earliest stages the infected animal will appear to lose coordination of its hindquarters, which will intensify into frequent stumbling. It will then lose its ability to support itself upright. In the most advanced stages, the paralysis will spread to full body, rendering the animal immobile.

    Excessive Drooling

    • Hypersalivation is a symptom common in most mammals which have contracted a rabies infection. It is characterized primarily by long strings of thick saliva which drool from the animal's mouth. The Canadian Veterinary Journal states that this symptom also correlates with a progressive dehydration often associated with rabies-infected cattle.

    Difficulty in Swallowing

    • The Canadian Veterinary Journal claims in its findings that cattle suspected of rabies infections were found incapable of a swallowing reflex. They were provided dishes with water to stave off dehydration. The animals would plunge their muzzles into the bowl, but the water would run out of their mouths along with the excessive drool. No signs of a swallowing reflex were observed. This may also contribute to a loss of appetite typically observed in afflicted cattle.

    Dullness

    • In its earliest stages, rabies can appear in two different forms, according the Canadian Veterinary Journal. The first is known as the dumb form. In this form, the animal is characterized by its apparent dullness or inactivity. Cattle may wander aimlessly. Frequent bellowing and yawning is also associated with this form of rabies.

    Mania

    • The furious form manifests in the earliest stages, and appears markedly different from the dumb form, according to the Canadian Veterinary Journal. This form is characterized by mania and wild-eyed expressions. The animal will appear hyperexcitable, even violent. Excessive bellowing is also present in this form. In both forms of cattle rabies, progressive paralysis will inevitably occur.