How to Do a Basic Health Check on Sheep or Cattle
If any of your sheep or cattle seem unwell, it helps to do a basic health check before you call the vet. A clear description of what you have observed can speed up diagnosis and improve treatment outcomes.
Why health checks matter
Doing a useful health check takes practice. The most valuable thing you can do as a livestock owner is to understand what normal looks like for your animals. That way, you can spot changes early, while the condition may still be easy to treat.
Avoid trying to diagnose the issue yourself. Only veterinarians can perform a full clinical examination and interpret the findings correctly. However, they rely on your observations. Saying “he’s not right” gives them very little to work with. A calm description of what you have noticed is far more helpful.
First signs of illness in sheep and cattle
In many diseases, the first changes are subtle. Look for:
Dullness or listlessness
Standing apart from the group
Lying down more often
Reduced interest in grazing or feed
Because sheep and cattle are prey animals, they often hide signs of illness. When you first approach the paddock, they may seem normal. Quiet observation from a distance can make these signs easier to see.
What to look for in a basic livestock health check
Start by standing quietly and watching the animal for a few minutes before getting closer. Then check for the following:
General behaviour and movement
Limping or uneven steps
Circling or walking in an unusual way
Difficulty rising or standing
Straining or awkward posture during urination or defaecation
Body condition and symmetry
Prominent ribs, backbone, or hip bones
Swelling on one side or in a particular area
Udder and milk
A swollen or discoloured udder
Kicking at the udder with a hind leg
Milk that is watery, discoloured, clotted, or contains blood
Discharges and droppings
Discharge from the nose, eyes, mouth, vagina, or penis
Staining or diarrhoea around the tail
Breathing and eating
Rapid, noisy, or laboured breathing
Coughing
Excess salivation
Dropping food or struggling to chew
Signs of lameness
Encourage the animal to walk in a straight line and then in a circle. Watch for signs of discomfort or uneven movement. If the animal can be safely restrained, examine the feet for injuries or foreign material.
When to call the vet
Contact your vet as soon as you see something abnormal. A detailed description of your observations will help them assess the urgency and decide what action to take. Phoning early in the day can make it easier for them to schedule a visit.
Early action improves the chance of recovery and gives your animals the best possible care.
If you’re new to livestock or want more confidence around health and care, our What You Need to Know to Keep Livestock course covers essential skills and practical advice for managing stock on a small block.
