A clinical syndrome in imported cows subjected to environmental stress in Sudan
Suliman, H.B.; Bkhiet, H.A.; Fagiri, I.
Veterinary Record 125(9): 240
1989
ISSN/ISBN: 0042-4900 PMID: 2800295 Document Number: 347163
During the summer of 1986 when temperatures were around 45 degrees C a herd of 910 Friesian cows was left outside on a farm near Khartoum. Two cows which showed signs of laboured respiration, pyrexia (40-42 degrees C) and collapse, died within 24 hours. Although the remaining cows were moved inside, 185 cows were affected similarly in the next 2 weeks. Most of the cows responded to treatment with antibiotics, sulfonamides, antipyretics, antihistamines and intravenous fluids but 15 cows died or were slaughtered. PM examination showed hyperaemia of trachea and bronchi, congestion of the lungs with patches of pneumonia, liver congestion and a soft flabby heart. The kidneys showed microscopic degenerative changes in the tubules and glomeruli. Biochemical analysis of blood samples revealed raised levels of serum enzymes, sodium and inorganic phosphates and low serum calcium and immunoglobulins. Heat stress was thought to have been the main cause of the syndrome but pneumonia played a secondary role and probably contributed to the death of the animals. No pathogens were isolated.