Farm Animal Welfare

Cattle Youngstock Respiratory Vaccine Timing

Optimal timing of respiratory vaccines in young cattle maximises protection during the highest risk periods.

Key Facts

Maternal antibodies can interfere with vaccine response in calves under 3 months
Intranasal vaccines bypass maternal antibody interference providing earlier protection
IBR, RSV, and PI3 vaccines should be timed before housing and mixing
Modified live vaccines provide faster immune response than killed vaccines
Annual boosters maintain protection in growing cattle herds

Welfare Considerations

Respiratory disease is the most significant welfare and economic problem in young cattle. Vaccine timing that provides maximum protection during the highest risk periods - housing, weaning, and mixing - prevents the fever, laboured breathing, and pain of bovine respiratory disease. Well-timed vaccination is one of the most cost-effective welfare interventions available for young cattle.

What You Can Do

Support optimal vaccine timing protocols for young cattle
Advocate for pre-housing vaccination as standard welfare practice
Learn about respiratory vaccine timing to support effective advocacy