Congenital diseases in cows and cattle

Main causes of congenital diseases

   •   Genetics / Heredity – latent carriers, close matings

   •  Infections during pregnancy – mainly viral

   •  Nutritional deficiencies in the pregnant cow (vitamins, minerals)

   •  Toxins and medications during pregnancy

   •  Damage to fetal develo

pment in early pregnancy

Nervous system

   •   Hydranencephaly – partial/complete absence of the brain

   Related to BVD, Schmallenberg

   •   Cerebellar hypoplasia – underdevelopment of the cerebellum

   •  Blind calf syndrome – congenital blindness

   •   Contracted tendons with neurological signs

Signs: lack of coordination, tremors, inability to stand/suck

Musculoskeletal System

   •   Arthrogryposis – joint fixation

   •  Chondrodysplasia (dwarfism) – mainly in certain breeds

   •  Scoliosis / Kyphosis – spinal deformities

   •  Cleft palate – cleft palate

Cardiovascular system

   •   VSD / ASD – holes between the ventricles/atrium

   •  Persistent ductus arteriosus

   •   Leads to weakness, poor growth rate and sometimes early death

Respiratory System

   •   Hypoplastic lungs – underdeveloped lungs

   •   Choanal atresia – blockage of the nasal passages

Digestive System

   •   Atresia ani / coli – absence of an opening to the anus or intestine

   •  Omphalocele – umbilical hernia

   •  Megaesophagus

Usually requires euthanasia or surgery (if detected early)

Reproductive system

   •   Freemartinism – twin carriage per male → barren

   •  Agenesis of ovaries / uterus

   •  Hermaphroditism

Infectious diseases that cause birth defects

   •   BVD – abortions, neurological defects

   •   Bluetongue

   •   Schmallenberg virus

   •   Akabane virus

   •  Neospora caninum – mainly abortions

Common nutritional deficiencies

   •   Vitamin A – blindness, nerve defects

   •  Iodine – goiter, weakness

   •  Manganese – skeletal deformities

   •  Selenium – muscle weakness

Prevention – Critical Points

   •   Genetic Carrier Testing for Bulls

   •   Pre-breeding Vaccinations

   •   Balanced Nutrition for Pregnant Cows

   •  Avoiding Medications and Toxins During Pregnancy

   •   Isolating Calves with Suspected Defects

*It is always advisable to consult a qualified veterinarian.