Animal First-Aid Quick Reference
Not a substitute for vet advice. When in doubt, call.
Normal vitals
| Species |
Temp (F) |
Pulse |
Resp |
| Dairy cow |
101.5 |
60-70 |
25-30 |
| Beef cow |
101.5 |
55-80 |
15-30 |
| Sheep |
102.3 |
70-80 |
20-30 |
| Goat |
102.5 |
70-90 |
15-30 |
| Pig |
102.5 |
70-80 |
25-40 |
| Horse |
100.0 |
30-40 |
10-20 |
| Chicken |
105-107 |
- |
10-30 |
| Rabbit |
101-103 |
130-325 |
32-60 |
Common emergencies
Bloat (ruminant)
- Left side distended, obvious discomfort.
- Walk animal. Offer mineral oil 100-300ml (sheep/goat) or 1-2 pints (cattle).
- If severe (down, laboured breathing): vet now. Trocar may be needed.
Milk fever (fresh cow / doe)
- Muscle tremor, staggering, down within hours of calving/kidding.
- Needs IV calcium - vet.
Ketosis (fresh dairy)
- Off feed, acetone breath, weight loss.
- Propylene glycol drench 6oz twice daily. Vet if unresponsive.
Pneumonia
- Coughing, nasal discharge, fever above normal for species.
- Isolate. Antibiotic per vet Rx.
Dystocia (labor over 1h without progress)
- Wash hands, arms, vulva. Examine position.
- Call vet early rather than late.
Fly strike (sheep / rabbit)
- Maggots in wool / fur. Shear affected area, clean, permethrin.
- Rabbit: veterinary emergency.
Scours (calf / lamb / kid)
- Isolate. Electrolytes 2L twice daily.
- If no milk intake in 24h, vet.
Wound
- Clean with saline or dilute chlorhex.
- Not stitch-worthy? Antiseptic spray + fly repellent in summer.
- Deep / bleeding: pressure bandage, vet.
Poisoning
- Remove from source.
- Identify plant / chemical (take sample if possible).
- Call ASPCA Animal Poison Control.
Do NOT
- Do not give ibuprofen or acetaminophen to any livestock.
- Do not give dairy cattle aspirin before labor (blood thinner).
- Do not use cat flea products on dogs or vice versa; never on rabbits.
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