Down Cows
A ‘down’ cow is any cow that is recumbent (lying down on her chest or side) and unable to stand unassisted.
Responding to a down cow
Cows may become recumbent for many reasons and at any stage of their lactation cycle, although it most commonly occurs around calving time. Regardless of the initial cause, all down cows are at risk of nerve damage and other complications if they remain down for 24 hours or longer.
Australian research conducted by Gippsland Veterinarian Dr Phil Poulton has demonstrated that the quality of nursing is highly correlated to the likelihood of secondary damage and therefore the result of her final outcome.
Treating a down cow
Down cows need to be treated appropriately and quickly to maximise their chance of recovery. This requires an accurate diagnosis and treatment of the primary cause followed by prevention and/or treatment of secondary damage.
The following principles apply to the management of all down cows, whatever the cause:
- Check the cow’s environment,
- Determine the cause (get a diagnosis) immediately,
- Treat the problem appropriately and promptly – early treatment promotes early recovery,
- If possible, get her back on her feet quickly to avoid secondary damage,
- If her chances of recovery are low or a high standard of nursing cannot be provided, arrange for the cow to be humanely euthanised on site without delay.
Many of the factors that cause cows to go down are preventable. After you have nursed or euthanised a down cow it is important to review your transition cow management, calving management and sire selection to see if improvements can be made. Seek professional advice if you are unsure.
