Know · Health
Anaplasmosis in cattle
A tick- and blood-borne disease that destroys red blood cells and can cause severe anemia, especially in adult cattle. Educational only — diagnosis and treatment require a veterinarian.
What it is
Bovine anaplasmosis is commonly associated with Anaplasma marginale, an organism that infects red blood cells. It is transmitted by ticks and mechanically by biting flies or contaminated needles/equipment. Clinical disease is often more severe in older cattle than in calves.
Also known as: Anaplasma marginale, gall sickness (related concepts)
Common signs (educational)
- Fever, depression, and loss of appetite
- Pale or yellow (icteric) mucous membranes
- Rapid breathing, weakness, or collapse from anemia
- Abortion or reduced performance in some herds
- Death in severe untreated cases
How it spreads
Biological spread via ticks; mechanical spread via horseflies and reused needles, dehorners, or other blood-contaminated tools. Movement of carrier animals can introduce the disease into naïve herds.
Who is at risk
Adult cattle in tick-endemic regions, herds with poor needle hygiene, and operations bringing in cattle of unknown status. Stressed cattle may show worse clinical outcomes.
Prevention & biosecurity notes
- Tick and fly control programs suited to your region
- One needle per animal (or vet-recommended sterile practice) for injections
- Clean/disinfect blood-contaminated equipment between animals
- Biosecurity when purchasing or mixing cattle
- Work with your vet on testing/herd plans where anaplasmosis is endemic