One sick cow can set a small herd back months — and some cattle diseases spread fast and must be reported. Knowing the common ones, and preventing them, protects both your herd and your neighbours'.

1. Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD)

A very contagious disease caused by a virus, which brings fever, blisters in the mouth and limping (lameness). It spreads quickly and is notifiable (a disease you must report to a vet) — tell a vet immediately if you suspect a case. Vaccination and strict control of animal movement are key.

2. Contagious bovine pleuropneumonia (CBPP)

A serious lung disease causing fever, coughing and difficult breathing. It spreads through close contact; vaccination and buying only healthy, tested animals help prevent it.

3. Anthrax and blackleg

Both are sudden killers. Anthrax is dangerous to people too — never cut open the body of an animal you suspect died of it; call a vet. Blackleg affects young cattle and is prevented by vaccination.

4. Parasites — ticks and worms

Ticks spread diseases and weaken animals; worms inside the body steal nutrients. Regular worm treatment (deworming) and tick control (dipping or tick treatments called acaricides) keep these in check.

5. Prevention is the real cure

  • Follow a vet-designed vaccination schedule.
  • Give worm treatment and control ticks on a routine.
  • Keep new animals separate for a while (quarantine) before mixing them.
  • Provide clean water and good nutrition — weak animals get sick first.
  • Report unusual deaths or symptoms early.

For the full picture, read our cattle farming guide and why water matters for livestock.

Key takeaways

  • FMD and CBPP are serious, fast-spreading diseases — vaccinate.
  • Anthrax is dangerous to people; call a vet, never cut open the body of a dead animal.
  • Ticks and worms weaken cattle — control them on a routine.
  • Good nutrition and clean water are your first defence.