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% of calf deaths in the UK, and each case potentially costing up to £500, attention should be focussed 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.
Offering a feed and mineral lick, such as 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.
- 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.