Diseases in Rainy Season in Animals: Their Symptoms and Method of Control

The rainy season brings greenery and moisture to the environment but also introduces several diseases. Just as we humans are prone to illnesses like colds, flu, and fevers during the rainy season, animals too are quickly affected by diseases such as lameness, anthrax, and foot-and-mouth disease. Some of these animal diseases are contagious and can spread rapidly during this season. Without timely treatment, livestock owners can face significant economic losses. However, by paying attention to early symptoms, we can protect animals from many diseases. It is crucial to be aware of the symptoms of these diseases. Read this post carefully for information on the symptoms and prevention of major diseases affecting calves and adult animals during the rainy season.

Diseases in Calves and Adult Cattle During the Monsoon Season

During the monsoon season, increased humidity and moisture levels make calves and adult cattle susceptible to various diseases.

• Black Quarter (BQ): This disease is caused by the bacterium Clostridium chauvoei. The mortality rate for this disease is between 80 to 100 percent. It mainly affects animals aged between 6 months and 2 years. Initial symptoms in affected animals include high fever, red eyes, reduced appetite, and cessation of cud chewing. Over time, swelling appears on the animal's rump, thighs (upper part of the legs), and neck. Pressing the swollen areas produces a crackling sound. The affected animals suddenly start limping. If not treated promptly, this disease can lead to death.
• Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD): This disease is caused by a virus from the Aphthovirus genus. It affects cattle and buffalo of all ages. Infected animals exhibit high fever, swelling in the feet, and excessive salivation. Small blisters appear on the gums, tongue, and between the hooves, which later turn into sores. There is an increased risk of miscarriage in affected animals.
• Bovine Respiratory Disease (BRD): BRD is a common respiratory illness affecting young animals, including calves. It results from a combination of bacterial and viral infections. Animals that come into contact with infected animals can also become affected. Symptoms in infected animals include coughing, fever, and difficulty breathing.
• Parasitic Infections: During the monsoon, parasites like ticks, lice, and mites are common and can cause various health issues in calves. Symptoms of these infestations include weight loss, anemia, irritability, and poor health.

Protecting Animals from Various Diseases During the Rainy Season

• According to veterinarians, vaccinate animals on time to protect them from these diseases.
• For Foot-and-Mouth Disease, vaccinate healthy animals over 6 months old twice a year.
• Vaccinate animals against lameness fever before the rainy season starts.
• For swelling caused by lameness fever, make an incision to expose the bacteria to air, which will destroy them.
• To prevent the spread of these diseases, keep affected animals separate from healthy ones.
• Clean the feet of animals affected by Foot-and-Mouth Disease with a copper sulfate solution.
• Burn and destroy straw, husk, etc., that come in contact with the saliva or feet of affected animals.
• Apply iodine on the animals' bodies twice at 7-day intervals to relieve lice and ticks.
• Apply garlic powder on the animals' bodies twice a week to rid them of lice and fleas.
• Ensure fresh feed and clean water for the animals. Prevent animals from going into muddy areas.
• Keep animal housing dry and clean the floors with a disinfectant.
• If any symptoms of the disease are noticed, immediately get the animals checked by a veterinarian.

What methods do you use to protect animals from various diseases during the rainy season? Share your answers and experiences with us in the comments. For more information on animal health and nutrition, follow the 'Pashu Gyan' channel now. Also, don't forget to like and share this post to spread the information to as many farmers and livestock keepers as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How can animals be protected from diseases?

A: Maintaining cleanliness around animals, providing them with a balanced and nutritious diet, and ensuring proper vaccination and deworming can help protect them from various diseases. Regular health check-ups by a veterinarian can also help in the early detection and treatment of any health issues.

Q: How should animals be cared for?

A: During the rainy season, animals should be provided with balanced food, clean water, clean and dry shelter, and regular medical care. They should be kept in hygienic conditions to prevent the spread of diseases. Regular check-ups by a veterinarian are essential to ensure their good health. Additionally, animals should not be given stale food or contaminated water. Separate arrangements should be made for sick animals' living and feeding.

Q: How do animals protect themselves from rain?

A: Different animals and birds protect themselves from rain in various ways. Some animals, like birds, have waterproof feathers that repel water and keep them dry. Other animals, like cows and buffaloes, have thick skin and body hair that provide insulation, keeping them warm and dry. Smaller animals, like squirrels and monkeys, take shelter under trees or in caves or burrows to avoid getting wet.