Anaplasmosis Testing for Cattle
Anaplasmosis is an infectious disease of cattle caused by Anaplasma marginale, a pathogen that infects red blood cells. Diagnostic testing can help identify exposure and support herd health management.
The disease can be transmitted through several routes, including ticks, biting flies, and blood-contaminated veterinary equipment. Reusing needles or other equipment between animals can increase the risk of mechanical transmission.
Cattle of all ages are susceptible to infection; however, mature cattle, particularly those over 2 years of age, are more likely to develop severe clinical disease.
Clinical signs may include:
- Weakness, staggering, or lagging behind the herd
- Decreased feed intake
- Fever
- Pale mucous membranes
- Jaundice
- Abortion in pregnant cows
- Sudden death
Risk-reduction strategies include controlling ticks and biting flies, using clean needles and veterinary equipment, and maintaining appropriate herd biosecurity practices.
Delta Livestock Diagnostics offers Anaplasma antibody testing as part of our cattle diagnostic services. Testing can help veterinarians and producers assess exposure and support informed herd-management decisions.