The death of 3 adult cattle on the forest belonging to a single commoner was reported recently (Nov 2016). All the cattle died after a short illness. Post mortem examination of one of the carcases indicated that it died from Haemorrhagic Jejunitis, a severe inflammation of the small intestine. The probable cause being Clostridium perfringens which was isolated from the lesion. The animal presented as being very dull with complete loss of appetite, scouring with both fresh blood and melena (black tarry blood) in the faeces and a low temperature. It died despite treatment. The other animals belonging to the Commoner have been vaccinated against Clostridial diseases and there have been no further reported cases.
These cases serve to remind us that there is always risk of Clostridial disease which is very difficult to treat in any of its different forms though it is generally preventable by vaccination. If you have any concerns or wish to have your stock vaccinated then please contact your veterinary surgeon. The link will give you some further information on the different forms of Clostridial disease: http://www.nadis.org.uk/bulletins/clostridial-disease-in-cattle.aspx
David Coombes BSc, BVSc, MRCVS DBR, Cedar Farm Practice .