This condition can cause a rigid paralysis of the animal.

Cause

The disease occurs following contamination of a wound by spores of clostridium tetani from soil. If the wound environment is suitable, the spores germinate and bacteria multiply and produce a neurotoxin which affects all parts of the nervous system, ie peripheral nerves as well as the brain and spinal cord.

The use of banders as a means of castration of bulls increases the risk of tetanus, as does open surgical castration in unvaccinated animals. All domestic animals can develop tetanus but cattle are the least susceptible, with horses being the most susceptible.

Symptoms

The early signs of disease include stiffness, muscle tremors and difficulty chewing or swallowing. Cattle often develop bloat and may have a raised tail and pointed ears. Later in the disease, animals become recumbent and die from respiratory failure.

Treatment

Treatment is worthwhile in cattle in the early stages of the disease even though the prognosis is still guarded. Treatment involves the administration of tetanus antitoxin, penicillin, sedatives, wound cleaning and general supportive care, including keeping the animal in a quiet dark environment.

Prevention and control

Tetanus can be prevented by the use of an annual clostridial vaccine. These vaccines require a two-injection course separated by an interval of four to six weeks. It is important to take note of the length of protection that the vaccine offers so that booster vaccines are administered at the correct interval to ensure continuous protection.

As there are a wide variety of clostridial diseases out there, a vaccine which covers several types of clostridial disease is the preferred choice.

If the vaccine is not used immediately after purchase it should be stored in a fridge. Any vaccine which has been opened but not used by the end of the day should be discarded.