Japan has temporarily stopped accepting live feeder and breeder cattle exports from Australia after a number of animals tested positive for bovine Johne's disease.

The Department of Agriculture confirmed it was aware of the announcement by Japanese authorities and would investigate whether the cattle were prepared according to requirements.

Senior vet Dr Lynn Simpson has blown the whistle on the shocking conditions on cattle export ships. Credit:Tamara Voninski

"It's a concern to us and our department is working closely with Japanese authorities, trying to resolve it as quickly as possible," said a spokeswoman for Agriculture Minister Barnaby Joyce.

Johne's disease, relatively rare in Australia, is caused by bacteria and leads to diarrhoea, tissue wastage and eventual death. Cattle are commonly infected as calves but many do not display symptoms for many years, according to Animal Health Australia.