The secret to helping calves overcome BRD
Focusing on early diagnosis and prompt treatment can help calves get back on track faster
In an ideal world, we could prevent calf disease altogether. In reality, nothing can prevent infection 100% of the time, and while we cannot completely avoid BRD, early detection and intervention can reduce some of the long-term effects associated with the disease. (Photo provided)
DULUTH, Ga. — “Cattle respiratory disease [BRD] is the second leading cause of death in weaned calves and the highest cause of death in weaned calves,1,” said Mark van der List, DVM, Boehringer Ingelheim. “Calves that recover from the disease will face short-term and long-term consequences. Because of this, it is critical for producers to recognize BRD early and take immediate corrective action.”
In an ideal world, we could prevent calf disease altogether. In reality, nothing can prevent infection 100% of the time, and although we cannot completely avoid BRD, early detection and intervention can reduce some of the long-term effects associated with the disease. Focusing on early diagnosis and prompt treatment can help calves get back on track faster.
Early diagnosis
Many producers rely on staff to raise the initial concern when it comes to identifying sick animals. While it is important to educate staff to recognize the clinical signs of BRD, this is only one piece of a larger diagnostic puzzle.
“The symptoms of BRD can vary depending on the specific pathogen, the animal’s immune system and some other factors,” warned Dr Van der List. “Although a presumptive diagnosis can be made based on clinical signs of infection, I recommend that you consult your local veterinarian for assistance in developing a more reliable and comprehensive diagnostic strategy.”
Try asking your vet about a chest ultrasound. They can be used to detect cases of subclinical respiratory disease that are not seen by manufacturers. Many veterinarians have been trained in how to perform lung ultrasounds and are willing and able to help producers detect cases of BRD earlier.
It may be helpful to consult with a diagnostic laboratory to further optimize your prevention and treatment strategies. A pathologist will work with your herd veterinarian to take a closer look at any bacteria or viruses present. This can be done ante-mortem by taking swabs from the calf’s nose, or post-mortem by necropsy evaluation.
“Think of it as an investigation,” urged Dr. van der List. “The vet, the lab and the producer can all work together to understand the disease. If you are aware of the risk factors and know which specific pathogens are the problem, you can create a more targeted approach to managing BRD.”
Prompt and effective treatment
Any sick calves identified through your diagnostic strategy should be evaluated and the appropriate treatment protocol implemented. These treatment protocols should be developed and reviewed regularly with the veterinarian.
Dr. van der List gave the following treatment advice:
- Look for an antibiotic that provides broad spectrum activity against the main BRD pathogens: Mannheimia haemolytica, Pasteurella multocida, Histophilus somni and Mycoplasma bovis.
- The antibiotic you choose should reach the lungs (site of infection) quickly and be effective over a long period of time.
- Keeping records helps communicate the animal’s medical status to anyone who may be working on the operation and ensures that proper withdrawal times are maintained. It is also a way to measure treatment results and identify chronically ill calves.
- Remember that following the label is an important part of successful treatment. Product labels contain important information such as dosage based on animal weight, proper route and frequency of administration, and withdrawal information.
List of references:
– Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health USA
https://www.morningagclips.com/the-secret-to-helping-calves-overcome-brd/ The secret to helping calves overcome BRD
