Clinical Findings:

• Cow unable to rise and remain in recumbent position
• On stimulation, cow attempt to make rise
• Normal appetite, defecation and urination
• Temperature normal at early stage but later becomes sub-normal
• Affected cows crawls around utilizing the forelimb whereas hind limb remain in flexed position, stance called “creeper cow”
• Animal down for 7 days ends fatally.

Fig:Downer cow syndrome causing rhabdomyolysis and acute renal failure

Treatment:

• Animal should be provided most comfortable bedding prior to calving and in advanced stage of pregnancy. Sand is ideal bedding material.
• Early detection and treatment of milk fever
• Recently calved animals should be monitored at least 48 hours after parturition.
• Recumbent animals should be treated as soon as possible and not delayed for more than 1hour.
• Cow should be made to stand within a short time following parturition.
• Sling support should be provided if cow donot respond to treatment
• Potassium acetate may be given @30-50 gm PO for 5-7 days
• Use of muscle tonic- Tonophosphan @ 10-15 ml for 5 days
• Vitamin E and selenium combined preparation@ 1 ml/25-50 kg b.wt. IM for 3-5 days
• Use of nerve tonic injection B₁+B₆+B₁₂ and corticosteroid therapy
• Massaging the legs for better circulation and nerve repair.