KOSSA Animal Science Practice Test 2026 – Complete Exam Prep Guide

Foot-and-mouth disease is a highly contagious viral disease that primarily affects livestock, such as cattle, sheep, goats, and pigs. It is caused by the foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV), which belongs to the Picornaviridae family. The disease is characterized by fever and the development of vesicles (blisters) in the mouth and on the feet of affected animals.

This disease is particularly significant in agriculture because it can lead to severe economic losses due to decreased milk production, weight loss, and the necessity to cull infected animals. Additionally, control measures typically involve vaccination and strict quarantine protocols to prevent outbreaks and spread, which can impact trade and livestock movement.

In contrast, the other options listed are associated with different hosts and types of diseases. Avian influenza primarily affects birds, canine parvovirus is specific to dogs, and bovine spongiform encephalopathy (also known as mad cow disease) affects cattle but is caused by a prion, not a virus. Thus, Foot-and-mouth disease is the correct choice as it directly pertains to viral diseases that impact livestock.