Factors affecting the incidence of pneumonia in growing bulls
Andrews, A.H.
Veterinary Record 98(8): 146-149
1976
ISSN/ISBN: 0042-4900 PMID: 1265996 Document Number: 108260
A 3-year study at two bull rearing centres revealed more cases of pneumonia during the second half of the year, especially during the October-December quarter. Bulls housed singly had a much lower incidence of pneumonia (8% and 16.7 at the two centres) than those housed in groups (44.3% and 85.7%); in those kept in groups of twos or threes for the first month and then group housed the incidence was halved (41.2% from 85.7%). The majority of cases occurred during the first four weeks after arrival at the centre. The incidence decreased with age of the bulls. Neither sucking the dam or a nurse cow, nor the provision or absence of creep feed influenced susceptibility. There was, however, a relationship between the time that the bulls had been weaned before entry and the incidence of pneumonia; those weaned less than 14 days before entry had a higher incidence.