Practical and Theoretical Considerations Concerning Treatment of Bacterial Pneumonia in Feedlot Cattle, With Special Reference to Antimicrobic Therapy

Abstract

When effective antimicrobic therapy can be initiated on the first day that clinical signs are evident to an experienced observer and continued for 48 hours after fever, dyspnea and toxemia have abated, and if appropriate shelter, nutrition and nursing care are provided, mortality from acute, uncomplicated bacterial pneumonia in feedlot cattle will be negligible. Mortality is increased when disease detection is inadequate, resulting in delayed treatment, when ineffective antimicrobics are utilized, or when inappropriate dosages, routes of administration or treatment intervals are selected, and when treatment is irregularly administered or prematurely terminated. Failure to promptly reinstitute treatment when relapses occur is often a factor in excessive mortality.

Sick cattle should be kept dry and provided with shelter from cold winds or hot sun. Sick cattle penned together should be of similar size and should not be overcrowded. At least 12 linear inches and preferably 24 linear inches of feed bunk space should be provided per animal.