Brucellosis is a bacterial disease of cattle causing abortion storms, infertility, and significant animal and public health welfare concerns globally.
Brucellosis causes welfare harm through forced abortion late in pregnancy, which is distressing for cows and produces stillborn or weak calves. Cows may develop chronic arthritis, orchitis in bulls, and persistent infertility. In enzootic regions, repeated pregnancy loss in the same herd creates ongoing suffering. Eradication programs, while requiring the slaughter of positive animals, have proven to be the most effective long-term welfare intervention where resources permit. Where eradication is not feasible, vaccination programs reduce abortion rates and welfare burden substantially. Improving access to vaccines in low-income countries is a significant international animal welfare priority.