Farm Animals

Cattle High-Altitude Welfare Challenges

Cattle at high altitude face welfare challenges from brisket disease (high-altitude disease), reduced oxygen, and extreme weather, requiring breed selection and management adaptations.

Key Facts

High-altitude disease (brisket disease) is caused by pulmonary hypertension from hypoxia
Cattle at altitudes above 2000m are at highest risk of high-altitude disease
Angus cattle have higher susceptibility than Hereford and some dual-purpose breeds
Genetic testing for pulmonary arterial pressure identifies susceptible individuals
Emergency descent to lower altitude can reverse early high-altitude disease symptoms

Welfare Considerations

High-altitude disease causes progressive heart failure and is fatal without intervention. Breed selection and early detection prevent deaths in high-altitude cattle systems.

What You Can Do

Test cattle for pulmonary arterial pressure susceptibility before placing at altitude
Select breeds with documented high-altitude tolerance for mountain operations
Monitor cattle for signs of high-altitude disease including oedema and exercise intolerance
Work with a vet experienced in high-altitude cattle health for affected animals