Farm Animal Welfare

Cattle Welfare and Respiratory Antibiotic Reduction

Reducing antibiotics for BRD management while maintaining welfare requires diagnostic investment, vaccination optimisation, and early non-antibiotic intervention strategies.

Key Facts

BRD antibiotic use can be significantly reduced through metaphylaxis elimination
Targeted treatment based on clinical scoring reduces unnecessary antibiotic use
Anti-inflammatory treatment at first signs of BRD reduces disease progression
Combination vaccination and management protocols dramatically reduce treatment needs
Diagnostic investment ensures remaining antibiotic use is targeted and appropriate

Welfare Considerations

BRD antibiotic reduction is achievable without welfare compromise when supported by better diagnostics, vaccination, and early intervention. Responsible stewardship protects both animal welfare and antibiotic efficacy.

What You Can Do

Support farms with BRD antibiotic reduction programmes
Advocate for diagnostic investment as part of responsible BRD antibiotic stewardship
Learn about BRD management approaches that reduce antibiotic dependency
Choose beef and dairy from farms with verified antibiotic stewardship programmes