On-farm culture and pathogen identification: risks and benefits

Selective treatment of clinical mastitis cases based on the results of on-farm culture (OFC) has been suggested by several international experts. It is based on the theory that mastitis cases caused by Gram-negative species has high resolution rates, and those that do not resolve respond poorly to therapy. Several peer-reviewed studies have evaluated the accuracy of different OFC test kits, which are between 60–85% accurate at identifying Gram-positive pathogens. Implementation studies consistently show a reduction in antimicrobial use, although further research across larger populations is needed to assess the impact on mastitis cure. Any OFC protocol should be regularly reviewed with the herd veterinarian. Herds with a high bulk cell count, a high prevalence of Gram-positive pathogens (e.g. Streptococcus uberis), or with a high prevalence of Klebsiella spp. should carefully consider the impact of deferred or withholding treatment on mastitis cure.

Some skin conditions in pigs: types, control and prevention

Skin conditions in pigs are common problems presented to the veterinary surgeon. A careful clinical examination, especially considering the age of the pig and the distribution of the lesions, all aids making an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan. Pain management is essential in clinical management. Sarcoptic mange is a condition that can be eliminated from pigs and should be considered a welfare problem. Ear necrosis and trauma injuries can be particularly problematic and must be treated aggressively. African swine fever (ASF) presents with a range of clinical signs including skin lesions, and all veterinary surgeons must be able to put ASF as a differential where appropriate.

A brief overview of acute poisoning in sheep

Acute poisoning in sheep can occur following ingestion of toxic plants, including plants that they may eat normally such as ivy (Hedera spp.) and plants they avoid unless other forage is unavailable. Poisoning with plants containing grayanotoxins (Pieris and Rhododendron spp.) is very common in sheep, particularly when the weather is poor and they are hungry. Oak (Quercus spp.) poisoning is also relatively common in sheep, particular in years with a heavy acorn crop. Numerous plants contain cardiac glycosides and are a potential risk to sheep. Sudden death is frequently the first signs of plant toxicosis in livestock. Bites from adders (Vipera berus berus) may also occur in sheep but are likely to be underreported as the actual biting event is not witnessed. Envenomation may result in swelling and haematological, renal, hepatic and cardiac effects. Overdosage of drugs with a narrow therapeutic index may also be a risk. One such example is closantel which can result in blindness. Management of acute poisoning in sheep is supportive including removal from exposure, and providing analgesia, rehydration and potentially a rumenotomy for plant exposure in valuable animals.

Abomasal ulcers in cattle

Abomasal ulcers in cattle often present with non-specific clinical signs meaning that it is one of several differentials that may be relevant for a wide range of clinical presentations. This, combined with a lack of accurate diagnostic tests, makes the condition hard for the clinician to diagnose with confidence. The management and prognosis for cattle differ significantly depending on the severity and chronicity of an abomasal ulcer. It is important that clinicians are aware of the possibilities for diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of the varying forms of this condition so they can offer the most appropriate management plans for the individual animal in every case.

CattleReview

Introduction: In this Cattle Review we consider a bovine respiratory disease decision tree, postoperative pain management following Caesarean section and fluoroquinolone resistance in cattle and human patients in the same geographic area.

Ectoparasites in sheep

Ectoparasites in sheep have significant effects on both welfare and production and their importance varies in relation to the geographical location and the system of production. This article focuses on the main ectoparasites and their related diseases within the UK, covering clinical signs, diagnostic methods and the treatment and control measures available. To conclude, future development in the areas of vaccine, biotechnologies and genetic selection are addressed to improve the control and reduce the negative effects of ectoparasites.

Ovarian abscessation and oophoritis in a first lactation dairy cow: a case report

A 28-month-old first lactation dairy cow presented as ‘oestrus not observed’ and transrectal ultrasound showed a hyperechoic mass on the right ovary. The mass continued to grow despite treatment, and 8 weeks later a right-sided ovariectomy was performed. A single, large, cavitated mass was found on gross pathological examination with histopathology confirming ovarian abscessation and oophoritis, a rare condition in cattle.

Mastitis in meat sheep

Mastitis in meat sheep occurs in all flocks, but incidence can vary. It can be a severe disease, resulting in ewe deaths, but chronic and subclinical cases also occur. It is a costly disease, but accurate assesments of the impact, especially of chronic and subclinical disease, are lacking. The most commonly involved pathogens are Mannheimia haemolytica and Staphylococcus aureus. The most important risk factors relate to compromise of teat defences, and increased transmission, but environmental cases do occur. Treatment of acute clinical cases requires systemic antibiosis and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug administration, and, where required, supportive care. Prevention involves tackling the risk factors, and using vaccination and breeding to reduce ewe susceptibility.

Lameness in sheep: a practical guide to non-contagious foot diseases

Non-contagious foot diseases are the most important causes of lameness on some farms, and farmers are often concerned when they see abnormal feet. Granulomas, shelly hoof and white line abscesses are common non-contagious foot diseases on UK sheep farms. This article presents an overview of these diseases, including their clinical presentation, aetiology and epidemiology, and treatment and control.