Farm Animals

Cattle BRD Prevention: Welfare and Economics

Bovine respiratory disease remains the leading cause of cattle morbidity and mortality in feedlots, with significant welfare and economic consequences.

Key Facts

BRD accounts for approximately 75% of feedlot cattle illnesses and 50% of deaths
Annual economic losses to US cattle producers from BRD exceed $1 billion
Stress during weaning, transport, and mixing is a primary trigger for BRD outbreaks
Metaphylaxis programmes reduce BRD incidence but raise antibiotic stewardship concerns

Welfare Considerations

BRD causes significant pain and distress, with affected cattle showing lethargy, laboured breathing, and anorexia. Prevention through stress reduction, appropriate vaccination, and good housing management serves both welfare and economic interests.

What You Can Do

Support antibiotic stewardship in cattle by choosing producers with low antibiotic use
Advocate for improved transport and weaning protocols that reduce BRD risk
Engage with research into BRD vaccines and non-antibiotic prevention strategies