Bovine respiratory disease: why prevention starts before the first cough

Bovine respiratory disease remains one of the most important health and welfare challenges affecting calves and young cattle. Although commonly described as calf pneumonia, it is better understood as a disease complex in which infectious agents, calf immunity, housing, ventilation, nutrition and management all interact. This means that effective control cannot rely on treatment alone. This article considers bovine respiratory disease as a systems problem, with emphasis on colostrum management, environmental conditions, early detection, vaccination, biosecurity and responsible antimicrobial use. Reducing disease risk depends on identifying the points at which calves become vulnerable and building management systems that reduce pathogen challenge while supporting resilience. A preventive approach can improve animal welfare, reduce avoidable losses and support more sustainable cattle production.