Texas FFA Livestock Judging PracticeTest

What are growths on the skin of cattle caused by a virus commonly called?

1. Warts

2. Abscesses

3. Cysts

4. Fibromas

The correct answer is: Warts

The correct term for growths on the skin of cattle that are caused by a virus is warts. These are specifically referred to as bovine papillomatosis, which is a viral disease characterized by the presence of benign tumors on the skin and mucous membranes of cattle. The virus, a type of papillomavirus, induces the growth of warts that can vary in size, shape, and location. Warts are common in young cattle and can occur in clusters or as solitary growths. They are generally non-cancerous and often resolve on their own without requiring treatment, although in some cases, they may be removed for cosmetic reasons or if they interfere with the animal's health. Other options like abscesses refer to pus-filled swellings that typically result from bacterial infections, while cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can occur in various tissues but are not specifically viral in nature. Fibromas are benign tumors made up of fibrous or connective tissue, which also differ from the viral growths caused by papillomavirus. Thus, the specificity of warts being caused by a virus makes this choice the most accurate in the context of the question.