Clinical Signs of Rabies in Cattle

Rabies is a virus transmitted through bodily tissue and excretions, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Dogs, cats and cattle account for nearly 90 percent of rabies cases in domestic animals, according to the website HealthScout. The clinical signs of rabies in cattle can vary greatly, and because rabies is contagious to humans and fatal once signs appear, any animal thought to be infected must be reported immediately to a veterinarian.

  1. Paralysis of the Throat

    • In the paralytic form of rabies in cattle, paralysis of the throat is one of the most common first signs, according to Critterology.com. This symptom may be accompanied by drooling, tooth grinding and bloating. Often a human caregiver may mistakenly think the animal has something caught in its throat and try to remove the object by sticking his or her hand into the animal's throat. This is extremely dangerous as the caregiver could potentially contract rabies.

    Sudden Change in Behavior

    • If a normally calm animal suddenly begins exhibiting signs of aggression, it may be a symptom of rabies. In the furious form of rabies, cattle may try to attack humans or other animals. According to Critterology.com, dairy cows will abruptly cease milk production and follow sounds and movements intensely, appearing hypersensitive to stimuli. Infected cattle may begin bellowing frequently, or show a silent attempt to bellow that is similar to a yawn.

    Paralysis and Weakness of the Hindquarters

    • Cattle infected with the paralytic form of rabies may experience weakness in their hindquarters, accompanied by decreased sensation in the area. This may be followed by loss of tail movement, and paralysis of the anus and penis in bulls. As symptoms progress the animal will eventually experience paralysis of its hindquarters and will be unable to stand.

    Lack of Coordination

    • Cattle infected with rabies may seem uncoordinated. If an animal suddenly begins to show difficulty walking normally, staggers, or shows erratic movements, it may be a sign of rabies.