18: Down cow and upper limb lameness

Question 1

How can you examine the MS system of a down cow?

Answer 1

In lateral recumbency - palpate limbs for heat or swelling, flex and extend legs, examine internal pelvis, encourage to stand

Question 2

What bloods can you do to assess muscle damage?

Answer 2

CK, AST, LDH

Question 3

What is the cause of most upper limb problems?

Answer 3

Trauma, with or without secondary infection

Question 4

What are the usual causes of swinging leg lameness?

Answer 4

Degenerative, dislocation

Question 5

What are the usual causes of weightbearing lameness?

Answer 5

Fracture, septic arthritis

Question 6

When are you allowed to transport a lame farm animal to the vets?

Answer 6

If made comfortable e.g. with analgesics

Question 7

Which CNS lesions can cause a down cow?

Answer 7

BSE, spinal cord or intracranial lesions