Exploratory Laparotomy In The Bovine

Abstract

<p>In the bovine species there may be seen a considerable number of disease conditions which give rise to a very similar sequence of clinical symptoms. Every case has its own individual variation due to the behavior of that particular animal in response to a stimulus, but the general picture can be broadly painted. A cow is seen "off feed" by the owner. Some cases show acute symptoms of inappetence and associated distress while others show a milder but progressive advance of symptoms. Production drops in dairy cattle and beef stock shows suspension of growth. Often when these animals are treated with laxatives and stimulants they respond temporarily, then drop back; others show no response to medication. After a week or two such an animal will begin to show emaciation, the hair-coat becomes dry and wrinkled, and general depression follows. Clinical examination is usually inconclusive. Very often one feels, "If I could just get my head inside and look around!"</p>