Beef Specialist Practice Exam

The condition indicated by significant weakness due to low mineral levels in cows is Grass Tetany. Grass Tetany, also known as grass staggers, occurs primarily due to a deficiency of magnesium in the diet, which is commonly seen in grazing animals consuming lush, rapidly growing grass. This condition can lead to a range of symptoms, including muscle weakness, lack of coordination, and even convulsions due to neuromuscular dysfunction caused by insufficient magnesium.

Cows that are at higher risk for Grass Tetany typically include those that are nursing or those that are under nutritional stress, particularly when grazing on high-potassium forages that inhibit magnesium absorption. Prompt recognition and treatment are essential, as untreated cases can lead to severe health consequences or even death.

In contrast, Milk Fever is associated with a calcium deficiency and typically occurs around the time of calving. Acidosis is related to an imbalance in the dietary formulation, leading to an excess of acid in the rumen, whereas Green Tetany is not a recognized condition in veterinary literature. Therefore, Grass Tetany is the most appropriate answer for weakness due to low mineral levels in cows.

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