04/03/2026
Tetanus is a neurologic disease caused by the toxin produced by Clostridium tetani, which grows in anaerobic (oxygen-free) conditions within deep wounds or necrotic tissue.
Though less common in cattle than in horses, it can occur after contaminated wounds such as castration sites etc.
🧠 Key clinical signs
1. Progressive muscle rigidity
Affected steers often develop:
✓. Stiff, extended limbs
✓. Opisthotonos (arched back with head and neck extended)
✓. Overall increased muscle tone leading to reluctance or inability to move normally.
2. Jaw and facial signs✓. Lockjaw (trismus) — difficulty opening the mouth
✓. Ears often held rigidly erect
✓. Jaw may feel hard even if not completely locked.
3. Nervous System Indicators
✓. Protrusion of the third eyelid (seen when the eyelid flicks or remains visible)
✓. Normal menace and corneal reflexes initially (no blindness)
✓. No obvious cranial nerve dysfunction apart from muscle rigidity.
4. Systemic and Respiratory effects
✓. Severe dyspnea (difficulty breathing)
✓. Tachycardia (rapid heart rate)
✓. High body temperature (often febrile)
As disease progresses, animals may become recumbent with legs extended and unable to stand.
5. Gait and behaviour changes
Steers that can still walk often show a stiff, awkward gait and may be sensitive to touch or noise.
📌 Summary
Tetanus in cattle presents as a progressive neurologic condition with:
✓. Rigid, extended posture
✓. Jaw stiffness and third-eyelid protrusion
✓. Respiratory distress
✓. Reluctance to move
Often following a contaminated wound, tetanus should be suspected when these classic signs appear and there is a relevant history of injury or surgical procedure.
🖋️. AB Veterinary Services
