GI - downer cow Flashcards
What is the definition of a downer cow/
A cow that has been recumbent for more than 24 hours and which does not have hypocalcaemia
What are the predisposing factors of downer cows?
Delayed/inadequate treatment of milk fever
Unfavourable surfaces
Obesity
Dystocia
What are the 3 main causes of primary recumbancy?
Metabolic disease
Toxaemia/infection
Periparturient injury
What metabolic diseases can cause primary recumbency?
Hypocalcaemia
Acidosis
Hypomagnesaemia
Fatty liver syndrome
What toxaemia/infections can cause primary recumbency?
Mastitis
Metritis
Peritonitis
Botulism
What periparturient injuries can cause primary recumbency?
Nerve damage - sciatic, obturator
Fractured femoral head
Fractured pelvis
Sacroiliac joint damage
Rupture of adductor/gastrocnemius muscles
What causes secondary recumbency that leads to downer cows?
Pressure damage - ischaemia of muscles and nerves
Struggling damage - ruptured muscles and ligaments
What are the 8 stages of examining a downer cow?
Temperature
Auscultate
Vaginal exam
Rectal exam
Check mucous membranes
Provide food and water
Analgesia
Biochem/haem
What are factors that make a bad prognosis for a downer cow?
Dull
Not eating
No attempts to stand
Abnormal position
Unfavourable surface
Down for more than 4 days
How do you treat/manage a downer cow?
Treat primary cause if known
Put on deep bed or on pasture
Turn her regularly - at least every 5-6 hours
Hoist the cow twice daily for 20 mins
Provide food/water/analgesia
What are the options to hoist a cow?
Bagshaw hoist
Inflatable bag
Harness/net
Float tank
