As cattle producers, the challenges don't end with calving season. Issues like nursing calf pneumonia and pinkeye can cause concern on the farm. This article will focus on summer/nursing-calf pneumonia and explore ways to mitigate its impact.
Summer pneumonia is typically detected in calves who exhibit lethargy, droopy ears, and a high body temperature (fever). Some calves may cough or have respiratory difficulties, while others may not. Consultation with a veterinarian is essential for determining the optimum vaccination strategy for calves and understanding appropriate treatment choices for summer pneumonia. Early intervention considerably improves therapy effectiveness.
Nebraska's prolonged winter weather has led to thinner cows, potentially increasing their susceptibility to illnesses like summer pneumonia. Stress from winter may result in lower-quality colostrum, highlighting the need for monitoring calf health and promptly addressing treatment needs.
If a calf succumbs to the illness, a veterinarian can perform a post-mortem examination to accurately diagnose summer pneumonia. This examination also helps rule out other possibilities and guides future preventive measures. During summer, it is crucial to transport deceased calves promptly to the veterinarian for examination, as hot conditions accelerate decomposition and obstruct accurate diagnosis.
A recent survey conducted by AR Woolums indicated that around one in five herds in the Plains states experience summer pneumonia annually. Factors such as previous instances of scours in calves, longer calving seasons lasting three months or more, and introducing orphan calves from other farms appeared to correlate with higher incidences of summer pneumonia, as reported by beef producers.
Dr. Richard Randle's case-control study in Nebraska, South Dakota, and North Dakota identified risk factors for nursing calf pneumonia. Larger herd sizes, intensive grazing, and estrus synchronization increase effective contact between calves, facilitating the spread of bacteria and viruses. Careful risk management is essential.
Cattle producers can protect herds from summer pneumonia by understanding risk factors, implementing preventive measures, early intervention, close monitoring, and collaboration with veterinarians. This ensures successful calving seasons and optimal cattle health and welfare.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-diane-kuhl
Categories: Nebraska, Livestock, Beef Cattle