Pain Scale for Bovines

At Pain Level = 0, bovine not bothered by palpation anywhere, and shows these behavioral/psychological traits:

  • Content and quiet
  • Grazing or eating at feeder
  • Curious about surroundings
  • Moves away when approached
  • Normal interaction with herd and calf (if a cow)



At Pain Level = 1, bovine may or may not react to palpation of wound or surgery site (pull away, kick, vocalize), and shows these behavioral/psychological traits:

  • Mild posture change
  • Stiff or subtle lameness
  • Less interested in surroundings
  • May warn off herd mates by
  • Head shaking or bunting


At Pain Level = 2, bovine reacts to palpation may try to run away or act aggressive when handled, and shows these behavioral/psychological traits:

  • Away from herd
  • Quiet, dull eyes
  • Abnormal posture-stiff, not moving, arched back, lame
  • Rough hair coat
  • Decreased appetite
  • Calf at foot may be hungry or bawling


At Pain Level = 3, bovine moves away from palpation may kick or bellow or be rigid, and shows these behavioral/psychological traits:

  • Away from herd
  • Stiff, unwilling to move
  • Not eating
  • Unkempt appearance
  • Weight loss
  • Abnormal posture-head down tucked tail, arched back, ears down


At Pain Level = 4, bovine is rigid or unresponsive, and shows these behavioral/psychological traits:

  • Rapid shallow respirations
  • Open mouth breathing
  • Depressed
  • Grunting
  • Teeth grinding
  • Not eating
  • Rigid posture or down