Vet Guide 2025: Handling Downer Cows with Dr Duncan Houston 🐄

When a cow goes down, every minute counts. “Downer” cows—those unable to stand—present critical emergencies on farms. In this comprehensive guide for 2025, Dr Duncan Houston outlines best practices for safe handling, veterinary assessment, and early interventions to boost recovery and welfare. From pain relief to strategic moving techniques, learn how to respond effectively to these high-stakes situations.🩺

1. Understanding the “Downer” Cow 🚨

A “downer” cow is unable to rise or move, but finding the cause quickly is vital. It may signal:

• Milk fever (low calcium)
• Grass tetany (low magnesium)
• Trauma (fractures, injuries)
• Neurologic issues (e.g. nerve damage)
• Advanced disease (infection, metabolic disorders)

The outcome depends on how quickly and safely the cow is handled and treated.💡

2. Emergency Response: Safety First 👥

Dr Houston emphasizes that handling downer cows is a team effort:

• Always have at least three people to assist.
• Conduct a swift exam:
• Head mobility
• Leg anatomy
• Respiration and alertness
• If signs of terminal injury or severe pain are present, euthanasia may be the most humane option.

3. Immediate Stabilization 🧊

If the cow is stable and salvageable, Dr Houston recommends:

• Move the animal to safe footing—clean pen, dry ground.
• Offer fresh water immediately.
• Administer pain relief—typically flunixin meglumine (Banamine®). Note: Avoid dexamethasone due to abortion risk.
• Call your veterinarian for diagnosis and further treatment.

4. Veterinary Care & Diagnostics 🩺

Once the vet arrives, groundwork is laid for appropriate care:

• Check bloodwork: Calcium, magnesium, electrolytes.
• Specific treatment:
• Milk fever: IV calcium gluconate.
• Grass tetany: IV magnesium solutions.
• Assess for musculoskeletal or neurologic issues.
• Plan for moving—whether lifting or dragging is appropriate.

Dr Houston stresses early veterinary involvement to preserve both the cow’s welfare and farm productivity.✅