Management of Cull Feeder Cattle

Abstract

Every cattle-feeding operation has animals that fail to meet standard health and/or performance expectations. This may be the result of illness and failure to respond to therapy, an aversion to environmental conditions, or a low pecking order within the hierarchy of the pen. If the immune system and metabolic status of the animal fails to adjust or recover from the challenges, a degenerative state of health and performance is likely to follow. As a result, the animal may be moved to a convalescent or long-term recovery pen where additional management programs may be applied. Upon entering this salvage program, the animal may be classified as a "chronic", "realizer", or "railer". Multiple management strategies can be utilized to return the animal to a productive state, or sell through an alternative marketing program. However, in certain instances, the veterinarian and the producer must concede to a progressive and degenerative condition that requires an immediate decision for the health and well-being of the affected animal.