Farm Animals

Cattle BRD and Respiratory Welfare

Bovine respiratory disease (BRD) is the most economically costly disease in beef cattle and a major welfare problem in feedlot and housed systems, with prevention and prompt treatment being welfare priorities.

Key Facts

BRD costs US beef industry an estimated $800 million annually
Affects mostly young cattle in the first weeks after weaning or arrival at feedlots
Multiple pathogens including Mannheimia haemolytica act as secondary invaders after viral infection
Early detection and treatment significantly reduces welfare costs and economic losses
Vaccination programmes reduce incidence but are not fully protective

Welfare Considerations

BRD welfare requires early detection through monitoring, prompt treatment, and preventive vaccination. The welfare costs of untreated or delayed-treatment BRD include chronic pain and reduced welfare over extended periods. Appropriate antibiotic treatment of proven cases balances welfare and AMR concerns.

What You Can Do

Advocate for BRD early detection monitoring as a welfare standard in beef production
Support research into BRD prevention strategies including improved vaccination
Engage with the evidence on antibiotic stewardship and welfare in BRD management