There are several viral and bacterial diseases that can cause respiratory disease in cattle. Fortunately, there are treatments available that can be effective if animals are treated in a timely fashion. Also, vaccines and other preventive strategies are available to help prevent these diseases from occurring in the future. There are also other noninfectious diseases that can mimic the signs of infectious pneumonia. In the South especially, heat stress is a major cause of increased respiratory rates and high body temperatures. There are also some toxic plants that cause lung disease. Contact a veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis, treatment, and preventive strategies for respiratory disease.
