Impact of disease on feedlot performance: a review

Abstract

Morbidity and mortality of feedlot cattle have a variety of causes. Compared to respiratory disease, metabolic and digestive disorders generally are less prevalent and occur later in the feeding period. In addition to the obvious costs related to animal death and medication, subsequent performance of sick cattle often is depressed substantially. Closer coordination between veterinarians, nutritionists, and feedlot managers should help reduce the incidence of morbidity and mortality of feedlot cattle.