Document type : Overview published by Idele
Authors : Elise Vanberg, Marlène Guiadeur, Béatrice Mounaix
Preview: Respiratory diseases in young cattle
In specialised fattening feedlots, young cattle are particularly susceptible to respiratory disorders. These disorders, which occur mainly at the beginning of fattening, can affect up to 70% of batches. The susceptibility of young cattle to respiratory disorders depends on their physiological and genetic characteristics, the conditions under which they are farmed (housing, health regimen, animal density, etc.), the season, and the organisation of the production line (transport, changes to batches, mixing of microbial systems, etc.). Respiratory diseases are caused by viruses (such as RSV, BCoV, Pi3, IBR and BVD) and bacteria (Mannheimia haemolytica, Pasteurella Multocida, Histophilus somni, Mycoplasma bovis). The action of viruses on an organism often leads to bacterial secondary infections.
Ways to prevent them
In 2016, the administration of 20% of antibiotic treatments on cattle farms was motivated by the appearance of respiratory disorders. Under the OneHealth banner, the livestock sectors are looking for alternative prevention or treatment measures to antibiotics, but are also interested in new, more innovative husbandry practices. The WelHBeeF project has tested an innovative method to reduce the incidence of respiratory disorders in fattening which involves a holistic approach in preparing grazers for sale.The method is based on the weaning of animals 30 to 45 days before sale, vaccination against certain respiratory pathogens, and a balanced, non-acidic diet, rich in trace elements and vitamins.
