Understanding Bovine Respiratory Disease in Clarkston, Washington

Bovine Respiratory Disease (BRD), commonly known as shipping fever, is a major health concern in both beef and dairy cattle. In Clarkston, Washington, where livestock farming is prevalent, BRD poses significant risks to herd health and farm productivity. This complex disease arises from a combination of viral and bacterial infections, environmental stressors, and management practices, making it essential for cattle owners to understand prevention, early detection, and treatment.

At Rustebakke Veterinary Service, we are committed to helping farmers and ranchers protect their herds through comprehensive veterinary care and strategic health management plans.

What is Bovine Respiratory Disease (BRD)?

BRD is the leading cause of illness and death in the cattle industry, particularly affecting calves, feedlot cattle, and recently transported animals. The disease primarily targets the lower respiratory tract, leading to pneumonia, inflammation, and impaired lung function.

Common Symptoms of BRD:

  • Coughing – Persistent, wet, or dry cough
  • Nasal Discharge – Clear, cloudy, or pus-like mucus
  • Rapid or Labored Breathing – Increased respiratory effort, open-mouth breathing
  • Lethargy and Weakness – Reduced activity, reluctance to move
  • Loss of Appetite – Decreased feed intake and weight loss
  • Fever – Elevated body temperature, often over 40°C (104°F)

If left untreated, BRD can cause permanent lung damage, reducing growth rates and overall productivity. Early intervention is critical to improving recovery outcomes.

Learn how preventative care can reduce disease risks by scheduling an appointment at Rustebakke Veterinary Service.

What Causes Bovine Respiratory Disease?

BRD is a multifactorial disease, meaning it develops due to a combination of infectious pathogens, environmental stressors, and animal-specific factors.

Infectious Causes of BRD:

Viral Infections:

  • Bovine Respiratory Syncytial Virus (BRSV) – Causes lung inflammation and airway constriction
  • Infectious Bovine Rhinotracheitis (IBR) – Affects the upper respiratory tract, increasing susceptibility to bacterial infections
  • Parainfluenza Virus Type 3 (PI3) – Weakens lung defenses, allowing bacterial invasion

Bacterial Infections:

  • Mannheimia haemolytica – The primary cause of pneumonia in cattle
  • Pasteurella multocida – Contributes to respiratory infections in young calves
  • Histophilus somni – Affects multiple organ systems, worsening disease outcomes

Environmental and Management Risk Factors:

  • Weaning Stress – Increased cortisol levels weaken immune response
  • Transportation (Shipping Fever) – Long-distance travel exposes cattle to new pathogens and stress
  • Overcrowding – High stocking densities increase pathogen transmission
  • Extreme Weather Conditions – Sudden temperature changes impair respiratory function
  • Poor Ventilation – Inadequate airflow leads to high ammonia levels, irritating the respiratory tract

Understanding these risk factors helps farmers implement effective BRD prevention strategies. Consult our veterinary team for customized herd health management at Rustebakke Veterinary Service.

Preventing Bovine Respiratory Disease

Proactive management is the best way to reduce BRD incidence and minimize economic losses. Preventative measures should focus on reducing stress, improving immunity, and minimizing exposure to pathogens.

Best Practices in Cattle Management

  • Provide Proper Ventilation – Ensure barns and pens have adequate airflow to reduce humidity and airborne bacteria.
  • Reduce Weaning Stress – Implement low-stress weaning protocols, such as fenceline weaning.
  • Maintain Optimal Nutrition – A balanced diet with sufficient vitamin E, selenium, and trace minerals strengthens immune function.
  • Improve Biosecurity – Limit contact between newly arrived cattle and existing herds to prevent disease spread.

Vaccination and Early Disease Detection

Vaccination is a cornerstone of BRD prevention, reducing the severity of infections and protecting herd health.

BRD Vaccination Guidelines:

  • Calves: First vaccination at 2-4 months old, followed by boosters
  • Feedlot Cattle: Vaccination upon arrival to reduce outbreak risks
  • Breeding Stock: Annual boosters to maintain immunity

Consult your veterinarian to develop a vaccination schedule tailored to your herd’s needs.

Early detection is crucial. If you notice lethargy, nasal discharge, or increased respiratory effort, seek immediate veterinary evaluation.
Learn more about our large animal services here.

How is BRD Treated?

Once BRD is diagnosed, treatment focuses on eliminating infection, reducing lung inflammation, and supporting recovery.

Veterinary Treatment Approaches

1. Antibiotic Therapy

  • Used to combat bacterial infections
  • Selection based on culture and sensitivity testing to prevent antibiotic resistance

2. Anti-Inflammatory Medications

  • Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) help reduce fever and lung inflammation

3. Supportive Care

  • Fluid therapy to correct dehydration
  • Electrolytes to maintain metabolic balance
  • Nutritional support to promote recovery

In severe cases, intensive treatment or hospitalization may be required. Advanced therapies, such as oxygen supplementation or corticosteroids, may be necessary for cattle with severe lung damage.

Frequently Asked Questions About BRD

How quickly can BRD progress?

BRD can become life-threatening within 24-72 hours if not treated. Early detection is crucial.

Can BRD be cured completely?

With prompt treatment, most cattle recover. However, chronic lung damage can affect long-term growth and productivity.

Is BRD contagious?

Yes, viruses and bacteria spread through respiratory secretions, making proper biosecurity essential.

Protect Your Herd: Partner with Rustebakke Veterinary Service

Bovine Respiratory Disease is one of the most economically significant diseases in the cattle industry, but proactive health management can greatly reduce its impact.

At Rustebakke Veterinary Service, we offer:

  • Comprehensive herd health consultations
  • Customized vaccination programs
  • Advanced diagnostic testing
  • 24/7 emergency veterinary care

Preventative care and early intervention are key to protecting your herd.

Schedule a consultation today and let us help you maintain a healthy, productive cattle operation.