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
