What is a sign that cattle may have H1N1 on a dairy farm?

• A. There are cats on the farm and they suddenly die.
• B. Cows show coughing and nasal discharge.
• C. Milk becomes sour without reason.
• D. Cattle become listless and move slowly.

Answer: (A)

Influenza-like disease in cattle presents with respiratory signs. The best clue that cattle might have H1N1 on a dairy farm is coughing accompanied by nasal discharge, since the virus targets the respiratory tract and causes these symptoms. Fever and reduced appetite can also accompany the illness.

Milk souring points to something entirely different—usually contamination or spoilage in storage and handling rather than a respiratory virus. General listlessness can occur with many illnesses and isn’t specific to influenza. Deaths of cats on the farm don’t indicate bovine influenza in cattle and suggest other issues or diseases unrelated to H1N1 in the herd.