Feeder Health - Articles

Manage the whole system to stay ahead of BRD outbreaks

High calf prices may compel stockers and feedlots to buy riskier, BRD-prone cattle. Proper management and on-arrival practices reduce health risks and promote successful feeding programs.

August 9, 2023

Vickie Cooper and Daniel Scruggs

With the fall calf prices setting up to be some of the highest since 2014, stocker and feedlot operations may be forced to purchase cattle that are higher risk than they are comfortable with when it comes to the chance of bovine respiratory disease (BRD) in order to fill pastures and pens.

Reduce antibiotic use and boost your bottom line with targeted metaphylaxis

The cattle industry is adopting targeted metaphylaxis, a strategy that administers antibiotics to individual high-risk calves, to improve animal health, reduce costs and promote antibiotic stewardship.

May 26, 2023

Joe Gillespie

As the cattle industry continues to advance and improve antibiotic stewardship practices, producers and veterinarians are reevaluating their approach to metaphylaxis, the administration of antibiotics on arrival to calves at high risk of bovine respiratory disease (BRD).

Digital dermatitis or 'hairy heel wart' is not just a dairy issue

For many feedyards, digital dermatitis is rapidly becoming the most common cause of lameness. Understanding its causes, as well as prevention and early treatment protocols, can help gain control over this infectious hoof issue.

March 8, 2023

Heather Smith Thomas

Digital dermatitis (DD) has been a problem in dairies for a long time and is becoming more prevalent in beef cattle, says Terry Engelken, a professor in the college of veterinary medicine at Iowa State University.