| By :
Tim Smith
As with any purchase it is important that you get value for your money even when you are buying your first cattle breed. If you are uncertain about how to purchase a beef animal then it would be best to deal with someone who is ethical and understands this side of the business. This could include a family member, friend, neighbor, local farmer or County Agent. Here are 4 important cattle diseases and preventions to be aware of when buying cattle breed. The idea is to not go into a purchase with little or no information or background. 1. Clostridial Diseases A group of related diseases may cause sudden death, especially in young, growing cattle. These diseases are Blackleg, Enterotoxemia, etc. Good vaccines are available and cattle should be vaccinated early in life with boosters at appropriate times. Your veterinarian can help you select the proper vaccine and outline a time schedule. This would include a 7-way Clostridial vaccine at 2-3 months of age and a second booster at weaning. 2. Respiratory Disease (pneumonia) stress Weather changes and infectious agents may all be involved and are most common in calves soon after weaning. Minimize stress at this time and provide protection from the elements, such as a shed and windbreak. Develop a vaccination program with your veterinarian including IBR (infectious bovine rhinotracheitis), PI3 (parainfluenza type 3), BRSV (bovine respiratory syncytial virus) and BVD (bovine virus diarrhea). A minimal program for respiratory disease would include an intra nasal vaccination with IBR and PI3 at 2-3 months of age and a vaccination at weaning containing a modified live virus (MLV) for IBR, PI3, BRSV, and BVD. 3. Parasite Control When cattle are grazed on the same pastures every year, internal parasites may become a problem. In this situation deworming is needed to minimize parasite load and allow proper gains. Specific products to use and the time are critical considerations and depend on your grazing program. Your local veterinarian is best prepared to provide advice. External parasites of concern include lice, (common in winter) and horn flies (common in summer). Both need to be controlled, and several pesticides and methods of application are available. 4. General Injections of any type may cause lesions if injected into the muscles. All injections should be given subcutaneously (under the skin) when possible. Muscles in the neck can be used if it is necessary that intramuscular injections be given. DO NOT make injections into the hind quarters (rear legs or hip). Be sure to keep records of all treatments and always follow the withdrawal times as directed. The directions on the product will indicate how long the animal must be withheld from slaughter after use of the specific product. Always follow all directions on the label.
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