🚜 Time to Schedule Your Cattle TB Testing! 🐄

Bovine tuberculosis (TB) is a serious, contagious disease that affects cattle, other livestock, wildlife, and even humans. Regular testing is essential to protect your herd, comply with state and federal regulations, and prevent costly outbreaks.

⚠️ What is Bovine TB?

Bovine TB is a chronic bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium bovis. It spreads through respiratory droplets, contaminated feed, and close contact with infected animals. Once TB enters a herd, it can spread silently for years, making routine testing crucial.

🩺 Effects of TB on Cattle:

❌ Weight Loss & Poor Growth – Infected animals often lose condition and productivity.
❌ Chronic Cough & Respiratory Issues – TB primarily affects the lungs but can spread to other organs.
❌ Reduced Milk Production – Dairy cows with TB produce less milk and may have increased mastitis risk.
❌ Sudden Death in Severe Cases – Advanced TB can lead to organ failure, making early detection critical.

🚨 Risks to Your Herd & Operation:

• Herd Quarantines & Movement Restrictions – A TB-positive test can result in state-mandated movement restrictions, impacting sales and auctions.
• Economic Losses – Infected herds may require depopulation, leading to significant financial losses.
• Public Health Concern – Bovine TB can spread to humans through raw milk or direct exposure, making control measures essential.

✅ Why Regular TB Testing Matters:

✔ Protects Your Herd – Early detection stops the disease from spreading.
✔ Ensures Compliance – Required for movement, sales, and exhibitions.
✔ Preserves Market Access – Buyers, auctions, and processors demand TB-free status.
✔ Safeguards Public Health – Prevents transmission to other livestock, wildlife, and people.

📋 How TB Testing Works:

1️⃣ Initial Injection – A small amount of tuberculin is injected into the animal’s neck.
2️⃣ Follow-Up Exam (72 Hours Later) – A veterinarian checks for swelling or a reaction, indicating possible infection.
3️⃣ Next Steps – Any positive results require additional testing and possible herd management actions.

🔔 Testing Prep Tips:

✔ Ensure cattle are confined and easily accessible at testing time.
✔ Double-check that ear tags and identification records are up to date.
✔ Plan for the follow-up visit within 72 hours for results.

Don’t wait until the last minute, Don’t put your herd at risk! —schedule your TB test today to keep your herd healthy, productive, and compliant, before you need to travel! It is important to schedule now as getting test results back do take time!

📞 Call (435)722-9066 or go to uintavet.com to book your appointment.