Farm Animals

Cattle Respiratory Disease Welfare

Bovine respiratory disease is the most costly disease in beef and dairy cattle globally, causing significant suffering and driving antibiotic use.

Key Facts

BRD causes estimated losses of over 1 billion dollars annually in the USA alone
The disease complex involves multiple viral and bacterial pathogens
Weaning, transport, and mixing unfamiliar animals are primary stress triggers
Early treatment dramatically reduces severity and mortality
Vaccination, ventilation improvement, and reduced stress are the most effective preventive measures

Welfare Considerations

BRD causes significant suffering in affected cattle and represents a welfare failure driven by intensive management practices. Prevention through stress reduction, vaccination, and early treatment reduces both welfare harm and economic loss.

What You Can Do

Support research into BRD vaccination and treatment protocols
Advocate for welfare practices that reduce stress triggers including careful mixing and transport
Engage with farmers about BRD early warning and treatment systems
Support training for livestock workers in BRD recognition and response
Choose beef and dairy from farms with strong animal health management programmes