What are the signs & symptoms of CWD?
CWD attacks the brain of infected deer and elk, causing the animals to become emaciated (to become thin), display abnormal behavior, lose bodily functions and eventually die. Signs identified in captive deer include excessive salivation, loss of appetite, progressive weight loss, excessive thirst and urination, listlessness, teeth grinding, holding the head in a lowered position, and drooping ears. Many of these signs can also be caused by other diseases known in Wisconsin deer, such as Cranial Abscessation Syndrome, a bacterial disease of the brain, or by simple malnutrition. CWD is a slowly progressive disease and in general, signs are usually not seen until the animal is 18 months of age or older. Also noted is the condition of pregnant females infected with the disease to appear outwardly healthy until actual testing proved otherwise.
