Animal health
New research shows calves fed waste milk develop different immune cell and cytokine profiles than those fed salable milk, even when clinical health appears similar.
This Iowa operation’s meticulous approach to genetics, herd health, nutrition and milk components turns every detail into a driver of success.
Texas producers need to remain on alert as NWS continues to move north. The newest detection is in the state of Tamaulipas.
New research shows that genetic changes in modern H5N1 viruses improve their ability to infect bovine cells, helping explain recent HPAI detections in U.S. dairy herds.
Officials have confirmed the first case of highly pathogenic avian flu in a Wisconsin dairy herd.
Prevention, detection and long-term control of these diseases are key to avoiding a $300-billion impact.
Many heifer intramammary infections begin months before calving, long before milking hygiene becomes relevant. Targeting prevention earlier can protect future milk production and improve overall herd health.
Many larger dairies report having biosecurity protocols in place, according to a Farm Journal survey, but there are gaps in the relevancy of plans, farm security, hygiene and herd health practices, and training.
A calf jacket can make winter easier but only if you know how to manage them.
When we focus only on the most obvious clinical sign or lesion, we risk missing the broader forces shaping cattle health. Stepping back reveals patterns we can’t see up close.
Culling decisions should be just as important as breeding decisions. Here, two experts explain what to consider when replacing cows in a milking herd.
Milk yield, components and udder health metrics can reveal early disease long before clinical signs emerge. Learning to interpret these signals can transform routine milk data into proactive herd health interventions.
Two farms in Arizona have confirmed cases of vesicular stomatitis. In response, USDA APHIS has issued a situation report and the CFIA has imposed import restrictions.
This facility will increase the range of sterile fly release and bolster preparedness for New World screwworm.
Modern herds generate more information than ever. Veterinarians are key to interpreting it and guiding data-driven management decisions.
Even the best vaccine can fail if mismanaged. Dr. Jon Townsend outlines good handling practices to protect your investment and your cattle.
By providing microbial metabolites directly, postbiotics help calves develop stronger gut defenses and support cows as they move through the biologically demanding transition period.
We know the early life events of dairy replacement heifers have research-proven impacts on their later performance as adult dairy cows. Now, researchers are exploring how the development of young beef-cross calves influences their ultimate performance on the rail, with some surprising results.
Live microbes are reshaping dairy nutrition, offering new tools to support gut health, rumen stability and production efficiency from calf to cow.
New cases in Italy, France and Spain underscore the importance of surveillance and preparedness in U.S. herds.
A clean start begins at the navel. Good calving hygiene and early care are the simplest ways to prevent costly infections and improve calf health outcomes.
Prebiotic supplementation is beneficial for dairy calf health and development, and may improve milk yield in lactating cows.
Avoid inconclusive results, wasted tests, and diagnostic delays by focusing on these five practical improvements for sample selection.
“Most screwworm migration does not come from adult flies making heroic flights northward. Instead, it comes from the movement of infested animals — cattle, deer, wildlife — and yes, even in rare cases, people. Wherever the animal goes, the parasite goes with them,” says Dr. Christopher Lee.
Dr. Gerard Cramer suggests vets and producers rethink routine trimming, focusing instead on targeted interventions that deliver greater welfare and economic returns.
APHIS will host three listening sessions on new funding for Farm Bill animal health programs.
Historically, colder temperatures have played a crucial role in controlling New World screwworm’s geographical spread.
A trusted adjuvant can make all the difference in capturing a strong immune response in young calves.
Understanding and managing ketosis in dairy cows is crucial for maximizing both herd health and productivity, especially during the transition period from precalving to 100 days after calving.
With New World screwworm within 70 miles of the U.S.-Mexico border, the livestock industry is on high alert. USDA continues to fight the northward spread of the parasite while debate continues on the border closure.