Animal Science Genetic Disorders in Cattle

zwarts.serena30
Bovine Heritable Disorders
Serena Zwart-Schafer 
Animal Science 
Syndactyly
Spinal Muscular Atrophy
Short Spine Lethal Disorder
Syndactyly
Syndactaly is the result of congenital fusion of the digits in calves, causing the animal to be born with one or more foot with only one claw/hoof.The condition has been described in multiple breeds, although Holstein and Angus cattle are most commonly reporteddentified as a simple autosomal recessive trait, with varying degrees of expression. The variation in gene penetrance is clinically significant in that even if only one copy of the affected gene is inherited, some form of the disease may be present.
In contrast, Angus cattle display a simple autosomal recessive trait that requires inheritance from both the dam and sire (homozygous). Calves born with this condition may have fusion of the digits in anywhere from one to all four limbs affected. The right front leg is the most commonly affected, with the left front being second most common. Syndactyly calves may show varying degrees of lameness, have a high-step gait, and may walk slowly. Many of these calves will succumb to hyperthermia.
Syndactyly
Testing Options/Treatments/Prognosis
As this condition is associated with a simple recessive trait, all incidences should be reported to the breed association, and carrier animals should be removed from the breeding program. 
No treatment is available, and euthanasia should be considered based on the severity of the defect and associated lameness.
An animal can live to maturity, but sometimes maintaining such an animal is strenuous for the producer and the animal. Dependent on suffering, the animal should be put down. This could then classify the disorder as "lethal", additionally, some calves succumb to other challenges due to this disorder and can die to lack of nutritional requirements or muscle atrophy. This disorder has no reversal, and best "treatment" options should be discussed with a licensed veterinarian.

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