Cattle Respiratory Disease Prevention

Bovine respiratory disease (BRD) is the most economically significant and welfare-relevant disease of cattle, particularly in young beef and dairy animals.

Key Facts

BRD accounts for approximately 75% of all cattle morbidity and 50% of mortality in feedlot systems.
The BRD complex involves multiple pathogens including BRSV, BVD, PI3, IBR, and Mannheimia haemolytica.
Risk factors include mixing of cattle from multiple sources, transport stress, nutritional deficiency, and poor ventilation.
Prompt antibiotic treatment within 24 hours of clinical signs is critical for welfare and cure rates.
Vaccination protocols using combined respiratory vaccines reduce incidence and severity significantly.

Welfare Considerations

BRD causes acute pneumonia with high fever, cough, nasal discharge, and severe respiratory distress. Affected animals are visibly unwell and in significant pain. Untreated BRD progresses to chronic pneumonia with permanent lung damage, reducing lifetime welfare and productivity. The challenge for welfare is early identification — animals in large groups may not be observed closely enough to detect subtle early signs. Scoring systems for BRD severity guide treatment decisions and ensure appropriate antibiotic selection and dosing. NSAID co-administration provides vital pain relief and improves outcomes alongside antibiotics.

What You Can Do

Implement a structured BRD monitoring and scoring system in housed cattle facilities.
Vaccinate calves against key respiratory pathogens before housing or high-risk periods.
Ensure adequate ventilation and pen space in calf housing to reduce BRD risk.
Administer NSAID alongside antibiotic treatment for all cattle showing BRD signs.