Bovine tuberculosis (bTB) remains one of the most challenging infectious diseases affecting cattle worldwide. Its ability to spread quietly through a herd makes it particularly difficult to control. Infected animals can appear healthy for extended periods, which means the disease may go unnoticed without proper screening.

For veterinarians and farmers alike, early and accurate detection is not optional – it is essential.

What Is Bovine Tuberculosis?

Bovine tuberculosis is a contagious bacterial disease that primarily affects cattle but can also infect other animals and, in some cases, humans. Because visible symptoms often develop late, routine testing plays a critical role in identifying infected animals before the disease spreads further.

The standard field method for detection involves palpation of the caudal fold of the tail following tuberculin injection. Correct interpretation of the response requires both technical knowledge and practical experience.

Why Accurate Testing Matters

Even a suspected case of bTB can have serious consequences for farms. These may include:

• Movement restrictions

• Additional rounds of testing

• Herd quarantine

• Potential culling

The economic and operational disruption can be significant. Beyond financial impact, there is also a public health dimension. Since bTB carries zoonotic potential, reliable screening procedures are vital to protect both animal and human health.

This is why practical, hands-on training for veterinary students is so important.

Building Confidence Before Clinical Practice

Veterinary students must develop the ability to accurately palpate the bovine caudal fold and recognize TB-related responses before performing the procedure on live animals. The VSI Tuberculosis Caudal Fold Tail Model is designed specifically to support this training.

The model allows learners to:

• Observe and palpate realistic caudal fold anatomy
• Identify and interpret different reaction stages
• Develop confidence in performing and assessing the test

By practicing in a controlled environment, students can refine their technique without pressure, improving both competence and diagnostic accuracy.

Designed for Realistic and Repeated Use

Durability is essential in teaching environments. The VSI model is built for repeated hands-on training sessions while maintaining anatomical realism.

The product includes four distinct stages to simulate different test responses:

• 1 × Normal
• 1 × Small Firm reaction
• 1 × Diffused reaction
• 1 × Medium Firm reaction

Each stage can be purchased individually, with or without a stand, allowing programs to tailor their training setup to specific needs.

Versatile and Compatible

The caudal fold tail models are available in multiple bovine types:

• Holstein
• Hereford Black
• Hereford Brown

They are compatible with mounting on all VSI Bovine models, making them a flexible addition to existing veterinary training programs.

Preparing Students for Real-World Bovine TB Testing

Controlling bovine tuberculosis depends on consistent, accurate screening. That responsibility begins in veterinary education.

By giving students the opportunity to practice palpation and response recognition in a realistic setting, the VSI Tuberculosis Caudal Fold Tail Model strengthens practical training and supports better preparedness for real-world herd health management.

Accurate screening saves time, protects farms, and safeguards public health. It starts with confident, well-trained professionals – and that starts in the classroom.

To learn more about training tools like the VSI Tuberculosis Caudal Fold Tail Model and explore the full range of veterinary simulation solutions, visit our VSI Veterinary Simulation category page. Discover models designed to support hands-on learning, strengthen clinical confidence, and prepare students for real-world veterinary practice.