VetInsight Pakistan

Introduction Brucellosis , which is otherwise known as contagious abortion or Bang's disease , is a major bacterial disease in bovines and other domestic animals, which is most commonly caused by Brucella abortus [1] [3]. Key clinical indicators of Brucellosis in dairy cattle." Etiology and Transmission Bovine brucellosis is a bacterial infection caused by members of the genus Brucella , with Brucella abortus being the most common species infecting bovines [1] [15]. Transmission Routes: •Ingestion:  The most common route of transmission is through the ingestion of bacteria from aborted fetuses, fetal membranes, uterine discharges, and amniotic fluids of infected animals [3]. Such bacteria are ingested from contaminated food, water, and pastures as well [2]. •Direct Contact:  Even healthy bovines can get infected with this disease through direct contact with already infected bovines and their discharges [2]. •Indirect Contact: Brucella bacteria can persist in the environmen...

1. Introduction Milk fever is one of the most important metabolic disorders in dairy cattle, especially in older, high milk-yielding dairy cows [1, 6]. Unlike small animal eclampsia , milk fever in cattle is accompanied by progressive flaccid paralysis rather than tetany . However, subclinical hypocalcemia , where the cow is standing but has low blood calcium levels, is more prevalent and is often accompanied by other diseases such as displaced abomasum , ketosis , and retained placenta [2, 10]. 2. Pathogenesis:  The Calcium GapLactation demands that the cow mobilizes 20-30 grams of calcium daily, while her total blood calcium pool is only 3 grams [2, 4]. •Homeostatic Failure To overcome the calcium deficit, the cow has to mobilize more calcium from her bones and intestine. This is done with the help of Parathyroid Hormone (PTH) and Vitamin D . •Risk Factors High amounts of potassium in the feed, which cause metabolic alkalosis , make PTH receptors insensitive, effectively 'lockin...

 1.Introduction Theileriosis is an extremely destructive tick-borne protozoal illness mainly caused by Theileria annulata . One of the most economically striking diseases is the spread of Theileria annulata in the dairy and livestock sector of Pakistan, especially the Friesian , Jersey breeds , and their crossbreeds to high-yielding of the imported exotic breed. Theileriosis in cattle 2. Vector & Transmission The disease causing intravascular hemolysis is transmitted by the bites of infected ixodid ticks, particularly the genus Hyalomma . The louse is localized in the tick's salivary glands and is injected into the host's bloodstream during the tick's feeding. 3. Pathogenesis:  The cellular invasion The life cycle of Theileria in the cow host is remarkable and is comprised of two separate phases two-fold: Lymphoproliferative Phase:  On entering, Sporozoites adhere to and invade the host Lymphocytes (White Blood Cells). They turn into the form of Schizonts, which tri...

1. Introduction Among the ectoparasites of the dairy industry in Pakistan , ticks parade as the major problem. They are a member of the Arachnida class and the primary causative agents of the significant economic losses incurred with blood loss (Anemia), skin irritation, and transmission of deadly blood protozoa. Ticks infestation in cattle 2. Common Tick Genera in Pakistan According to veterinary studies, the most abundant ticks both on cattle and buffaloes are: Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus:  Commonly called the "One-host tick." Hyalomma anatolicum:  If fact, Hyalomma anatolicum is a "Multi-host tick" that transmits Theileriosis . 3. Pathogenesis Ticks do not only suck the blood of the animals. Actually, they are destructors of the animal health in three ways: Direct Damage:  Considerable blood loss leads to anemia, weight loss, and decreased milk production. Toxicosis:  A fraction of the ticks inject actively toxic substances into the bloodstream making...

 1. Introduction Haemorrhagic Septicaemia (HS) is a major bacterial infection of cattle and buffaloes brought about by Pasteurella multocida (Serotype B:2 and E:2). The features of this condition are high fever, acute respiratory distress, and a very high death rate.  2. Transmission & Risk Factors The bacteria often reside in the upper respiratory tract of healthy animals as " Commensals ." When an animal is under Stress (e.g., sudden weather change, transport, or high humidity in the monsoon), the bacteria start to multiply rapidly and enter the bloodstream.  3. Clinical Signs  High Fever:  105°F - 107°F. Submandibular Edema:  Severe swelling under the jaw and throat (Gal Ghotu). Respiratory Distress:  Loud, painful breathing (Grunted breathing) and frothing from the mouth. Recumbency:  The animal falls down and usually dies within 24-48 hours. 4. Pathogenesis (The Septicaemic Phase) ​Once the bacteria reach the blood, they release Endoto...

 1. Introduction Lumpy Skin Disease is the result of a Neethling virus ( Capripoxvirus ) infection. Its main hosts are cattle and water buffaloes. It is delineated by the manifestation of fever and the development of stiff, distinct edges nodes on the skin. 2. Transmission  In contrast to the FMD virus, the LSD virus is primarily transmitted by Biting Insects (Vectors):  >Mosquitoes (Aedes aegypti)  >Biting flies (Stomoxys calcitrans)  >Ticks  3. Clinical Signs Skin Nodules:  2-5 cm wide lumps are formed all over the body, particularly on the head, neck, and udder.  Edema:  Swelling of the legs as well as brisket area.  Secondary Infection:  These lumps may dissolve into open sores (ulcers), which attract flies and lead to myiasis (maggots).  Milk Drop:  Severe curtailment in milk production along with high fever (106°F). 4. Pathogenesis The insect bite is the main entrance of the virus which is no longer then...

 Introduction Foot and Mouth Disease is one of the ten most infectious diseases of hoofed animals (generally refers to animals such as cattle, buffalo, sheep, and goats) and is caused by an Aphthovirus . The trouble is, this virus is not so much of a killer for the adult animals as it is a "Production Death" in that it makes milk production lower and often causes permanent lameness.  1.Transmission: Now a day, it is frequent pathogenic organism dissemination in the following ways: 1.1 Aerosol:  In the air (this kind of transport is possible for a long distance). 1.2 Direct Contact:  Transmission by saliva, milk, or semen from infected animals. 1.3 Fomites:  Contaminated shoes, vehicles, or farm applications. 2. Clinical Signs (The Diagnosis) As a veterinarian, you must carefully look at these pathognomonic sympotoms: 2.1 Vesicles (blisters):  On the tongue, dental pad, and gums. 2.2 Excessive Salivation:  "Ropey" saliva hanging from the mouth. 2.3 Foo...

 Introduction Mastitis is the inflammation of the mammary gland (udder), which is often caused by infections from bacteria. According to the studies, it is the most expensive disease in the world mostly of the dairy industry due to the costs of discarded milk, treatment, and the early culling of good productive cows. 2. Clinical vs. Subclinical Mastitis Clinical Mastitis:  The signs are enlarged udder, clots or blood in milk, and fever in the cow. Subclinical Mastitis:  The most dangerous form. The milk appears normal, but the cow has a high Somatic Cell Count (SCC) and lower milk fat. It can only be detected through screening tests. 3. Pathogens Involved The most common bacteria include Staphylococcus aureus (often leads to chronic cases), Streptococcus agalactiae , and environmental coliforms like E. coli (associated with unhygienic practices). 4. Diagnostic Tools ​California Mastitis Test (CMT):  A bedside/farm-side test to detect subclinical cases by observi...

  An infographic illustrating how the misuse of antibiotics (like Oxytetracycline) in dairy farming creates resistant bacteria that can impact human health through milk. Introduction The dairy sector is the backbone of Pakistan’s agricultural economy, providing livelihoods to millions of rural families. However, there is a silent crisis in the industry: the widespread use of broad spectrum antibiotics, especially oxytetracycline (OTC). While essential for treating infections, these drugs are increasingly being misused as growth promoters or for self-medication by farmers. This indiscriminate use, without veterinary supervision, is leading to a major public health emergency known as Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR). Why Oxytetracycline? Factors Driving Overuse Oxytetracycline remains the most commonly abused antibiotic in local dairy farming due to its low cost and over-the-counter availability. Several factors contribute to this: Lack of Veterinary Oversight Many farmers practice "s...