Monday 19th October – All 25 seen – Steer 220 appeared to be straining when urinating

At 11:45 this morning, the cattle were in two groups in Camp 45, mostly resting in the sunshine, with a few stragglers happily grazing. Sixteen cattle, including the seven Sussex cattle and youngster 220, were resting in the eastern pasture. Steers 20, 21, 33, 270 and 271, along with cows 72 and 940, were also resting in the western pasture. Steers 30 and 228 were both grazing but soon settled down to rest. The cattle were all very friendly, happily accepting plenty of strokes and rubs as they rested. Many stood up for longer neck and back scratches before settling back down.

Youngster 220 was initially lying down, relaxing and chewing his cud. After a while, he stood up and appeared to strain when attempting to urinate, arching his back and passing a very small amount. A little later, clear discharge was still visible from his urinary tract. As I had observed yesterday, he was also frequently swishing his tail. Otherwise, he appeared bright and alert, with no obvious swelling or distension of his abdomen.

He then wandered over to say hello, standing close and peacefully chewing his cud. After about five minutes, he settled down to rest. I updated Ned at HIWWT on his condition and shared some additional photos. Ned confirmed that the vet also felt it was probably a urinary tract infection and that youngster 220 would start antibiotics tomorrow after being checked.

While over in the western pasture, I checked the water trough, which was full. I took the opportunity to remove the large leaves from the bottom and clear those floating on the surface. The bowser appeared to be about a third full.

I said my goodbyes at 13:30, leaving all nine cattle in the western pasture resting peacefully in the sunshine. The group in the eastern pasture had started to get up and wander over to the trough for drinks. There were some shenanigans at the trough, with the Sussex cattle holding station and allowing other Sussex cattle to bypass the others waiting for a drink. A little harmless pushing and shoving ensued. Older steer 35 put a stop to that, though, wandering straight up to the trough and causing them to move quickly out of his way.

With the exception of youngster 220, the cattle were all good today.