Australian cattle respiratory disease research

Research conducted by Adelaide University has identified key risk factors for bovine respiratory disease (BRD) in Australian feedlot cattle. The study, which analyzed records from over one million cattle, found that BRD accounts for approximately 38% of all recorded deaths in feedlots, despite overall mortality rates remaining below 0.5%.

Findings indicate that the primary drivers of mortality are often established before cattle arrive at feedlot facilities. Specifically, cattle sourced from properties with a history of high BRD mortality were more than four times as likely to die from the disease. Additionally, cattle purchased through saleyards faced higher risks compared to those sourced directly from paddocks, likely due to increased handling and transport stress.

Using metagenomic testing, researchers discovered that locally endemic diseases complicate risk profiles even in vaccinated animals. The disease is estimated to cost the feedlot industry more than $40 million annually, with 69% of BRD-related deaths occurring within the first 60 days of the feeding period.