The signs you describe (nasal discharge, labored breathing, fever, cough) are commonly observed in calves suffering from an infection of the respiratory tract. Often respiratory disease in calves begins with a viral infection, like a cold, followed by secondary invasion of bacteria into the lungs (bacterial pneumonia). It is fortunate that the calves seem to be responding to the oxytetracycline. It will be important for you to closely monitor the calves to quickly identify new cases that need to begin treatment. It is also important to continue to treat calves for several days after signs of illness have disappeared. There are numerous bacteria and viruses that may be part of the disease process. An accurate laboratory diagnosis may help you select an appropriate vaccination program for next year. The value of vaccinating calves at an early age is controversial. Perhaps more important is controlling other factors that may be predisposing your calves to respiratory illness. These factors include weather stress, dust, crowding, commingling, inadequate colostrum, parasitism, and poor nutrition. A veterinarian will be able to help make an accurate diagnosis and suggest appropriate treatment. Ask the veterinarian to review your circumstances with you and make suggestions for ways to reduce the chance that calves will become ill next year

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