Obtaining the History
Obtaining an anamnesis and performing a physical examination are the initial and often the most important diagnostic tests conducted in the diagnostic approach to the sick ruminant.
The anamnesis can be performed before or during the physical examination and is accomplished by asking questions of the owner or manager. The signalment can be derived by either observation or questioning the owner. Information related to the chief, or presenting, complaint should be determined, especially the duration; whether the onset was gradual or sudden; and any associated signs that may have been noted. For females, one must know when the last parturition occurred, and for dairy cows, what the production parameters were in the previous lactation, as well as in the current lactation. With dairy cows a drop in milk production is often the only sign noted by the owner. Weight can be either approximated, via heart-girth measurements, or determined exactly if facilities exist. What and how the animal is fed are questions to be asked. Does the animal refuse any or all of the feed offered? Is there more than one ration or feeding regimen for this particular operation? If so, are these same signs noted in animals exposed to different feeding practices? The examiner also obtains vaccination and worming history and inquires about pasture or housing practices to determine the influence that management factors have on the incidence of the disease. Previous diseases noted in the herd, therapeutic regimens used, and resolutions of previous problems are pertinent aspects. Finally, the examiner should note the treatment history of the patient. An example of a history questionnaire that can be used for ruminants is included (Fig. 1.1). Specific problems that are noted in the history or physical examination can be found in the list at the beginning of Part Two: Manifestations of Disease, and lists of differential diagnoses can be considered. Alternatively, one can determine the pathophysiology(ies) that would present with the signs (problems) noted and then generate a list of diseases or disorders that would lead to that (those) pathophysiology(ies) noted.
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