Recognizing Common Bovine Diseases

The Last Ride Arizona discusses Recognizing Common Bovine Diseases when caring for your herd.

Caring for cows requires more than simply feeding them properly and providing them with the necessary shelter. It also involves being aware of the common bovine diseases they can catch and how you can prevent these diseases from occurring. To that end, here is a look at some of the most common diseases occurring in cattle.

Bovine Respiratory Disease Complex (BRDC)

Also referred to as “Shipping Fever,” Bovine Respiratory Disease Complex (BRDC) is a type of pneumonia that develops in shipped or stressed calves. A number of different factors can contribute to its development, including weaning, weather change and dehorning, all of which can make the bovine more susceptible to the viruses and bacteria that cause the disease.

The risk of developing BRDC can be reduced through proper handling and by maintaining sanitary conditions. Routine vaccination also helps reduce the risk of BRDC. Vaccinations should be provided while the cow is still young, as calves that survive the disease typically do not grow as quickly or as to as big of a size as those that are not affected. Read More