Multiple factors interact to increase the risk of respiratory disease in calves and youngstock and as autumn leads into winter then respiratory problems in calves and youngstock become more prevalent, especially when animals are housed.
With figures from the Cattle Health and Welfare Group showing respiratory disease accounting for nearly 20% 1 of calf deaths in the UK, and each case potentially costing up to £500 2, attention should be focused towards detecting and preventing this costly disease especially at this time of year.
The challenging weather conditions calves and youngstock face over the winter months can lead to increased growth of specific bacteria on the inside of the nose and upper respiratory tract and the more bacteria present, the more likely they can reach the lungs
and lead to pneumonia. Added to this, cold weather also thickens mucus in the respiratory tract which impairs the hair-like cells that clear infectious bacteria from the lower airways to the throat in order to be coughed up.
BREATHE RITE, offers nutritional supportive care to calves and youngstock at housing where they may be susceptible to respiratory disease. As well as containing energy and high-quality protein to aid the response to potential infections, natural decongestants have also been included to help support healthy respiratory function during periods of stress
How can BREATHE RITE support youngstock health at housing?
- Natural decongestants from plant
extracts and essential oils to help support respiratory health.
- 14.5% natural protein to help support
growth and immunity.
- Energy dense to help support weight gain.
- Protected selenium and high vitamin E
to help optimise health and immunity.
- Protected zinc and biotin to help
support hoof health.
- Available in 25kg buckets
For more information please contact your local Downland advisor
1. GB Cattle Health & Welfare Group. 2020. CHAWG – Fifth Report.
2. AHDB. 2018. Better management of Bovine Respiratory Disease.
3rd November 2023