What is BSE?

Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE), commonly known as mad cow disease, is a fatal disease that affects cattle. It attacks the central nervous system and leads to progressive neurological symptoms.

Although cases are now rare due to strict controls, surveillance remains in place across the UK. When a suspected or confirmed case is identified, precautionary movement restrictions are typically applied to the affected farm and any linked holdings as part of standard control measures.

Symptoms of BSE

Symptoms of BSE develop gradually over time and may be subtle at first. Farmers should be aware of behavioural changes and physical signs that worsen over weeks or months.

• Changes in behaviour
• Nervousness or apprehension
• Exaggerated reactions to touch or sound
• Weakness, particularly in the hind legs
• Reluctance to move through doors or near drains
• Aggression towards humans or other cattle
• Manic behaviour during milking
• Holding the head low
• Difficulty rising
• Tremors under the skin
• Loss of body condition, weight, or milk yield
• Excessive nose licking

Cattle over the age of four that die on farm are routinely tested as part of national surveillance programmes.

How is BSE spread?

BSE is primarily spread through contaminated feed. Historically, infection occurred when cattle consumed feed containing processed animal protein derived from infected animals.

The disease is caused by abnormal proteins known as prions. Once ingested, these prions can remain in the animal for several years before symptoms appear. In most cases, clinical signs develop when cattle are older, even though exposure occurred much earlier in life.

Strict feed regulations are now in place across the UK to prevent this route of transmission.

Why vigilance still matters

While BSE is now rare, continued vigilance is essential. Surveillance, accurate reporting, and compliance with movement regulations help protect herd health, maintain market confidence, and ensure traceability.

Strong record keeping and prompt action when issues arise are key parts of responsible herd management.

How Herdwatch can help with movement records

Accurate and timely movement records are essential for compliance and traceability. Herdwatch simplifies this process and helps ensure all data is recorded and submitted correctly.

Register OFF movements in seconds

Tap on the animals you plan to move and Herdwatch notifies CTS or APHIS instantly, keeping you compliant.

Register ON movements quickly

Scan the barcode on the animal passport using the app. Herdwatch automatically notifies BCMS or APHIS and pulls in all animal details.

Ensure accurate data is sent on time

Compliance is critical in any beef enterprise. Herdwatch ensures movement data is recorded correctly and submitted in the required format.

Report animal deaths easily

Select the animal and report directly to BCMS through the app. You then have seven days to return the passport, helping you stay compliant.