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A group of mixed cattle feeding in a feedlot.

Neospora-Positive Status: Impact on heifers/cows and their calves

Neospora caninum is a protozoal germ that has the potential to affect reproduction in beef and dairy herds. Neospora-related reproductive problems can arise from two different kinds of infected cattle: 1) cows or heifers that became infected by eating contaminated feed, and 2) cows or heifers that were born with Neospora and pass it on to their offspring in utero.

Two dairy calves in a small pen wearing warming jackets.

Dairy Calf Respiratory Disease: Treatment in the Aftermath of Cold Weather

Cold weather is not just hard on the people taking care of animals, it can be tough on the animals themselves. Consider respiratory disease (pneumonia) in dairy calves.

Several black beef cattle close together feeding.

Tuberculosis in Cattle: What You Need to Know

Bovine tuberculosis is a chronic and slowly progressive disease of cattle that emerges periodically in the U.S. Cases of bovine tuberculosis are usually diagnosed on the basis of tell-tale abnormalities found on slaughter inspection.

A closeup of a sheep's face. The sheep looks to be in pain.

Sore Mouth: A “Pox” Virus for Sheep

Just like in children or adults who contract the dreaded chicken pox, sheep and goats can catch their own similar “pox” virus called Sore Mouth, technically known as Contagious Ecthyma. This health problem is most recognizable by red blisters or thick brown scabs on the skin around the lips or muzzle area.

A hereford calf in a field with flies on its face.

The Different Sides of Pinkeye Treatment

Pinkeye (or infectious keratoconjunctivitis) is a scourge that most cattle operations will deal with at some point. Regardless of the type of cattle affected or time of year, prevention always beats treatment.

A close shot of a cow's eye. The cow seems to be in pain.

Toe Abscess (Toe Tip Necrosis) in Feeder Cattle

Toe abscess (toe tip necrosis) is most commonly seen in feedlot cattle and is likely subsequent to excessive abrasive damage to the hoof, especially the toe tip. Feet may become infected when the white line is damaged which opens the claw to bacteria, dirt and manure.

A vet and a producer examining a calf with the calf's mother in the foreground.

Are You Moving Enough Air in Your Calving Barn? Part 2: Effects of ineffective winter ventilation

High humidity, moisture, and increased levels of air contaminants due to ineffective ventilation can lead to significant health issues in our animals. This is especially of concern to our most sensitive sub-population, newborns and the very young. Even calves that receive adequate colostrum and a good nutritional start to life will have health challenges if they live in highly contaminated environments.

Red-to-orange cow lying with her newborn calf in a pasture.

Preventing Dystocia Before Calving Season Starts

Take time to understand the stages of labor and ensure best practices are in place to minimize dystocia during the calving season.

A herd of cattle grazing near a pond on an open range.

Nitrates and Livestock Water Quality

Nitrate poisoning is something we think about with forages such as millet, oats, corn, sorghum, sudan, kochia and others that have been fertilized or if there is a drought, but water can also be a contributing factor.

A small group of cattle grazing in a green pasture.

Anaplasmosis: Is it a problem in the Northern Plains?

Cattle producers have been hearing more and more about a disease called anaplasmosis. This disease recently appears to have become more common in areas not previously affected. The disease is typically associated with cattle herds in warmer areas of the country, but is it ever a problem up here on the Northern Plains?