Seizure disorders in 43 cattle.

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Neurology
• Large Animal Internal Medicine
• Comparative Pathology

Background:

• Seizures in large animals are uncommon and usually acquired.
• Limited case series exist describing seizure syndromes in cattle.
• Understanding cattle seizure etiology is crucial for effective management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize clinical findings and outcomes of seizures in cattle.
• To identify common causes and contributing factors for seizures in this species.
• To provide data for improved veterinary diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of medical records from 2002-2014.
• Inclusion of client-owned cattle with documented seizure episodes.
• Required physical, neurological examinations, and diagnostic laboratory results.

Main Results:

• 43 cattle cases met inclusion criteria; mean age 8 months, predominantly Piedmontese breed.
• Reactive seizures (70%) were linked to hypocalcemia and hypomagnesemia.
• Structural seizures (30%) included cerebrocortical necrosis, inflammation, and lead intoxication.

Conclusions:

• Seizures are frequently diagnosed in beef cattle, with identifiable causes.
• Metabolic and structural abnormalities are primary seizure etiologies.
• Prompt diagnosis and treatment lead to successful outcomes in most cattle seizure cases.