Bovine respiratory disease is the most common reason for antibiotic use in cattle. Responsible treatment — accurate diagnosis, appropriate drug choice, and adequate duration — balances welfare, stewardship, and economics.
Antibiotic stewardship and animal welfare in BRD management are more complementary than they appear. The animal welfare imperative to treat sick cattle promptly, effectively, and with adequate duration is entirely aligned with antimicrobial stewardship goals of using the right drug, at the right dose, for the right duration. Where stewardship and welfare potentially conflict is in metaphylaxis: treating apparently healthy animals reduces the risk of disease development but involves medicating animals that are currently well. The welfare case for individual treatment guided by respiratory scoring is strong — it targets medication where it is needed, supports early intervention before severe disease develops, and includes pain management as a standard component.