Understanding metaphylaxis practices for cattle at uncertain risk for bovine respiratory disease across U.S. feedlots: a survey of veterinarians and feedlot managers.

ABSTRACT: Bovine respiratory disease (BRD) is the most frequent and costly disease in U.S. feedlots. Metaphylactic antimicrobial use effectively reduces morbidity and mortality in cattle at high risk of BRD, however, its implementation is challenging when risk classification is unclear, and the cost-benefit is uncertain. This study aimed to collect and analyze input from feedlot managers and veterinarians on the criteria used to administer metaphylaxis on cattle of uncertain, or "medium" BRD risk. Responses from 25 veterinarians consulting for 617 feedlots (80 to 120,000 animal capacity) across 32 states, and 30 managers overseeing feedlots across 12 states (500 to 120,000 animal capacity) were analyzed. Nearly half of veterinarians (48%) expected BRD morbidity of 15% to 20% and mortality of 2% to 3

SUBMITTER: Horton V 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12814884 | biostudies-literature | 2026

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature