Study of 1 million Australian cattle links pre‑feedlot factors to respiratory death risk

A recent study of more than one million Australian feedlot cattle has revealed that the most significant risk factors for death from bovine respiratory disease (BRD) are determined before the animals arrive at the feedlot. Researchers analyzed data from a nationwide feedlot network and found that variables such as herd health status, vaccination history, and management practices on source farms were strongly correlated with mortality outcomes once the cattle entered the feedlot environment.

The analysis showed that cattle originating from farms with higher incidences of respiratory illness, lower vaccination coverage, or suboptimal biosecurity measures were disproportionately represented among those that succumbed to BRD in the feedlot. Conversely, animals sourced from farms with robust preventive protocols exhibited markedly lower mortality rates, underscoring the critical role of early intervention and disease control at the point of origin.

These findings suggest that feedlot operators and industry stakeholders should prioritize preventive strategies on source properties, including comprehensive vaccination programs and stringent biosecurity, to reduce BRD-related losses. By addressing risk factors before cattle reach the feedlot, producers can improve animal welfare and enhance overall productivity.