Bloat can usually be recognized by a change in shape viewed from the back, the animal's side may bulge out more than normal. Report this condition immediately. Immediately report any animal with a change in manure quantity or consistency. Cattle urine has a wide range of normal colors but report any change to the unit supervisor. Urine containing pus or having a strong, rotten smell needs to be immediately reported to the Veterinarian and usually indicates infection.
Male cattle are prone to urinary blockages which are life-threatening.
Report any animal straining during urination or with swelling of the ventral area of the belly which may indicate that the urethra has ruptured and urine is being deposited in the subcuticular space. Because bulls and steers of all ages will ride or hump other cattle, injuries to the penis are quite common. For older cattle, there are a variety of methods used to remove horns and the Farm Animal Veterinarian should be consulted. Normal Foot Overgrown hooves require trimming, particularly confined animals who are not able to naturally wear down their hooves. Report any animal with signs of injury or lameness-abnormal gait or movement, pain, swelling, or redness.