Following warnings from the Nebraska Department of Agriculture and the Nebraska State Dairy Association (NSDA) regarding health concerns coming from dairy cattle in Texas, Kansas is investigating a possible case of the same health concerns in the southwest region of the state.
As of March 20, Nebraska had no reported cases of aligning health concerns.
The cause of the symptoms in lactating dairy cows is still unclear. Multiple industry partners are currently assisting in diagnosis and epidemiology.
In addition to the Kansas investigation, New Mexico has two herds that match the description of symptoms.
According to NSDA, states surrounding Nebraska have not put restrictions on animal movements from Texas as of Wednesday.
Idaho is the only state that has shut down imports of all cattle from Texas, New Mexico, and Kansas.
Texas has not provided the number of herds or animals impacted.
NSDA stated information indicates that – so far – it has only affected lactating adult dairy cattle.
No mortalities are being reported, and it appears to be no lateral spread to feedlots/calf ranches surrounding the affected herds in Texas.
The Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC) said clinical signs of the health issues include:
- decreased herd level milk production
- acute sudden drop in production with some severely impacted cows experiencing thicker, concentrated, colostrum like milk
- decrease in feed consumption with a simultaneous drop in rumen motility
- abnormal tacky or loose feces
- Fever
If you notice signs compatible with those listed, contact your herd veterinarian and Nebraska Department of Agriculture.
