Downer Cow Syndrome (Recumbent cow syndrome)

- Clinical Signs

1- General Observations

• Bright, alert demeanor (in "alert downers")
• Normal appetite and rumination
• Persistent sternal recumbency (may attempt to rise)
• Mild to severe reduction in milk yield

2- Neuromuscular Signs

• Inability to bear weight on hindquarters
• Pain responses altered (nerve damage)
• Muscle swelling, stiffness

3- Non‑Alert Signs

• Depression, lethargy
• Systemic illness: fever, tachycardia

Diagnosis of Downer cow

1- Clinical Examination

• Assess mentation (alert vs non‑alert)
• Evaluate limbs for pain, nerve paralysis
• Palpate muscles for swelling or heat

2- Laboratory Diagnostics

• Low calcium, phosphorus, magnesium
• Elevated AST → indicates muscle damage
• Decreased Hb, PCV, RBC
• Elevated WBC → inflammation/infection

These lab findings help diagnose underlying metabolic causes and assess severity.