Bovine respiratory disease and its effects on productive performance indicators and carcass yield

Resumen

Objective: To evaluate the impact of bovine respiratory disease (BRD) on productive performance indicators and hot carcass yield in feedlot cattle raised under intensive tropical production conditions.

Design/methodology/approach: A total of 1,378 cattle were classified into three groups: animals without clinical signs of BRD, animals with one clinical event, and animals with two events during the fattening period. An ANCOVA model was applied using arrival weight as a covariate, followed by Fisher’s LSD test for multiple comparisons. Logistic regression was used to estimate the probability of presenting BRD as a function of hot carcass yield (%).

Results: Cattle experiencing one or two BRD episodes showed significant decreases (p < 0.05) in average daily feed intake, daily weight gain, total weight gain, final live weight, and feed efficiency. Hot carcass weight and carcass yield also declined progressively as the number of BRD episodes increased. Logistic regression revealed a negative association between carcass yield and the probability of BRD occurrence, with stronger effects observed in cattle that experienced two clinical events.

Limitations on study/implications: The study was conducted in a single feedlot operation, limiting the generalizability of the findings. Further research in different production systems and climatic regions is recommended to strengthen external validity.

Findings/conclusions: BRD exerts a clear and cumulative negative impact on cattle growth performance and carcass yield. These findings highlight the need for strengthened preventive health programs, early diagnostic tools, and improved management practices to mitigate the effects of BRD in tropical feedlot systems.