19/08/2025
Common Diseases of Breeding Bulls:
Breeding bulls can be affected by various diseases that impact their fertility and reproductive health. These diseases can be categorized into infectious and non-infectious, with some posing a risk to the entire herd and even humans.
1. Orchitis & Epididymitis:
• Causes: Brucella abortus, trauma, bacterial infections
• Symptoms: Swollen, painful te**is, reluctance to move, infertility
• Diagnosis: Clinical examination, semen evaluation, culture
• Treatment: Early antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs; culling if chronic
2. Testicular Hypoplasia:
• Causes: Hereditary, developmental defects
• Symptoms: Small, underdeveloped te**es, poor semen quality, infertility
• Diagnosis: Clinical examination, semen analysis
• Treatment: No treatment; affected bulls should not be used for breeding.
3. Pe**le & Preputial Injuries:
• Causes: Trauma during mating, improper handling, infections
• Symptoms: Swelling, bleeding, pain, refusal to mount
• Diagnosis: Visual inspection, ultrasonography if needed
• Treatment: Wound care, antibiotics, rest from breeding.
4. Balanoposthitis:
• Causes: Bacterial/viral infections, irritation, poor hygiene
• Symptoms: Swelling of pen*s/prepuce, pus discharge, difficulty in breeding
• Diagnosis: Clinical exam, culture of discharge
• Treatment: Antibiotics, antiseptic washes, improved hygiene.
5. Venereal Diseases (e.g., Trichomoniasis, Campylobacteriosis):
• Causes: Protozoal or bacterial infections transmitted during mating
• Symptoms: Infertility, repeat breeding in cows, balanoposthitis
• Diagnosis: Semen examination, culture/PCR
• Treatment: Culling infected bulls; strict biosecurity measures.
