Learn or review how cattle get infected with rabies, the two primary forms of it and what to help producers watch for. Gregg Hanzlicek, with the veterinary diagnostic laboratory at Kansas State University, says skunks are the most likely carriers. This is good information to offer 4-H or FFA groups, include with clinic communications or during VFD planning sessions.
Source: Drovers CattleNetwork Daily, December 29, 2015.
“Once rabies is in the brain, it will get into the salivary glands,” Hanzlicek said. “Then every time that animal bites another animal or human, it is going to spread the virus to those individuals. Toward the end of the disease, we believe all of the organs that have nerves are basically infected with the virus. Therefore, an animal thought to be rabid should not be salvaged.”
INSIGHTS: In winter, skunks and raccoons often semi-hibernate in haystacks, old barns, under building floors and other warm places. As breeding season starts, both move about the country, especially during January and February thaws. Infected animals pose more risk during these times as they are often hungry and are in feed bunks where it is easy to bite cattle. Skunks and raccoons seen in daylight during this time are suspect for disease, including rabies. Destroying them is a safe choice.