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Why is my cow breathing loudly and heavily but acting normal?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Other | Unknown - Other | Female | unspayed

My cow started to randomly breath really loudly and heavily today and seems like she's struggling, but she's acting completely normal. I checked again tonight and she still is that way. What could it be and how can I help her?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

Veterinary Technician

Published on December 6th, 2017

Heavy breathing can be a sign of several things including problems with the heart and lungs. Kidney and liver issues can also sometimes lead to heavy breathing in cows. If she's kept indoors in a barn, irritation from bedding or cramped quarters can also cause respiratory disease. Since this has been ongoing for a while, and doesn't seem to be improving, i'd call out a local vet to have her examined.

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