Health drives profit for cattle.

Paired with the right nutrition, cattle can earn money on carcass merit.  On the other hand, ignoring health plans can set up a series of unfortunate events.

“My goal as a veterinarian is to prevent that first domino from falling and not treat the calf as it’s falling off the cliff,” said veterinarian Mark Hilton

Most recent data shows calves treated for bovine respiratory disease are $111 behind those that never needed a shot.;  Add another treatment and that number goes $365 in the red.  Hilton said it’s all the way back to when the calf is in utero, that the clock actually begins running.

“The feedlot is not the place to start the health program, it’s too late.  If that’s the very first time that calf has somebody saying we’re going to help you with your health with the rest of your life, we’re way too late.”

It’s a long-term goal, but those who commit to it year after year typically enjoy better returns on their investments.