Respiratory disease is the most common cause of death and poor performance in young cattle from weaning to 10 months old, and housing increases many of the risk factors allowing this disease to develop.
We recommend investigating any outbreaks of pneumonia in calves, particularly if a vaccination protocol is not in place, to inform future vaccination policy and the best treatment for affected calves.
Ensuring adequate colostrum at birth, reducing stress, optimising nutrition and reducing risk factors, such as mixing calves of different ages, housing ventilation, concurrent disease and housing hygiene, can all have a beneficial effect on preventing outbreaks of bovine respiratory disease.
If you have any concerns regarding pneumonia or would like advice or to formulate a plan for your farm, please phone the surgery.