Health Management of Feedlot Cattle

Abstract

An organized and systematic approach is necessary for the effective control and management of disease in feedlot cattle. Typically feedlots receive cattle of various types, under many different conditions from a variety of sources. The design and operation of typical feedlots is frequently conducive to the mixing of cattle from several sources, exposure of new arrivals to resident populations, and the influence of many stressors often combine to result in major outbreaks of disease. Many diseases, such as respiratory diseases, are highly complex and difficult to control by vaccination or therapeutics alone. Veterinarians should develop methods to monitor disease occurrence and evaluate management procedures in feedlots as part of their normal routine.