Signs & Symptoms of Pneumonia in Cattle

Pneumonia is defined as any infection that sets into the lungs, and just like people, cattle are vulnerable. While newly weaned calves are the most likely victims of this condition, it is common for adults to contract it as well. The first step of treating an outbreak of pneumonia in your herds is to make sure that you are aware of the symptoms that indicate that it is present.

  1. Listlessness

    • Fighting pneumonia takes a great deal of energy and you may notice that the cow in question is looks fatigued and is moving without energy. Look for cows that hold their heads lower than the rest of the herd.

    Aloofness

    • Cows who are dealing with pneumonia often stay a little separate from their herds. They will not be as curious as other cows and you may find them standing or lying alone. This is abnormal behavior, especially in calves.

    Coughing

    • Because the cow's lungs are trying to work harder, and because they are likely dealing with unpleasant feelings in their lungs, a cow who has pneumonia will likely be coughing. At the very beginning, the coughing may simply present itself as heavy breathing, but in fairly short order it will progress to a cough.

    Nasal Discharge

    • Cows who have pneumonia often have runny noses due to congestion. When the respiratory system doesn't drain in the manner that it should, it leads to mucus draining from the nose. The cow will also be less inclined to clean its nose when it has pneumonia.

    Weight Loss

    • Because the pneumonia takes such a heavy physical toll on the cow, it may also appear thin. It will look less filled in than it should, and its flanks will seem much leaner than they should be. One way to recognize this symptom is to watch the cow when it walks; the abdomen will shake slightly.

    Stiff Movements

    • When a cow with pneumonia walks, it will usually be with at least a little bit of stiffness and difficulty. Its strides will be shorter and this can result in it dragging its toe or knuckle very slightly. Its tail may also stay tucked between its hocks.

    Frequent Reclining

    • A cow who has pneumonia will often be on the ground far more often than a healthy cow. This is especially true of calves.