A sound management program to keep animals healthy is basic to production of any livestock. Producers must observe animals closely to keep individual animals and the whole herd or flock healthy and productive. If the health status of a herd is compromised, that operation will not be as efficient as possible. To recognize clinical signs of diseases common to livestock, it is important to be familiar with what is normal or healthy. Producers should assess the herd or flock’s general health, on a regular basis, including vital signs, body condition and coat.
Signs that Indicate Healthy or Unhealthy Animals
| Healthy Livestock | Unhealthy Livestock |
|---|---|
| Alertness | Lethargic/Listless |
| Chewing cud | Ruminants not chewing their cud |
| Sleek coat | Rough hair coat |
| Bright eyes and pink eye membrane | Dull eyes |
| Normal feces and urine | Abnormal feces and Discolored urine |
| Normal temperature | High temperature |
| Gait steady, no limping | Limping |
| Normal respiration | Labored breathing/coughing |
| Stays in herd or flock | Separates self from herd or flock |
| Eats and drinks normally | Loss of appetite |
| Contentment | Runny nose |
| Normal pulse rate | Swelling on any body part |
