Farm Animal Welfare

Cattle Welfare and Calf Respiratory Disease

Calf respiratory disease is a major welfare challenge in the first months of life. Prevention through vaccination, housing, and management significantly reduces suffering.

Key Facts

Bovine respiratory syncytial virus (BRSV) and other pathogens cause calf respiratory disease
Adequate colostrum provides maternal antibodies protecting against early respiratory disease
Vaccination of cows before calving provides passive protection to calves
Calf housing ventilation is the most important environmental factor for respiratory health
Early treatment recognition prevents severe disease and chronic lung damage

Welfare Considerations

Calf respiratory disease causes significant welfare harm and long-term production consequences. Prevention through comprehensive vaccination, housing management, and early detection reduces both individual suffering and long-term welfare impact.

What You Can Do

Support farms with comprehensive calf respiratory disease prevention programmes
Advocate for calf housing ventilation standards in cattle welfare certification
Learn about calf respiratory disease prevention and management
Choose dairy products from farms with low calf respiratory disease records