Snake bite

Attention! This is a potentially life-threatening condition for your Cow. Time is of the essence, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Snake Bite

Cattle can run into snakes from time to time in their pasture, which can result in the cow getting bitten. The severity of the bite depends on the location, the type of snake venom, and the size and species of the cow. Snake bites to the mouth, head, or neck of the cow are some of the most serious bite locations. The clinical signs vary a great deal, depending on the location of the bite and species of snake.

Symptoms

Acute, severe swelling and oedema
Evidence of fang marks at the site of the bite
Pain
Bleeding
Muscle tremors
Respiratory distress
Dilated pupils
Paralysis
Death

Diagnosis

  • History
  • Clinical signs
  • Physical exam
  • Detection of snake venom antitoxins in the blood

Treatment


Treatment TypeDetailsReference
Antibiotics
Corticosteroids
Intravenous fluids
Epinephrine
Antivenin
Wrapping the leg
Tetanus shot

Prevention

  • Vaccination with Crotalus atrox toxin.

Article Reference

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