Tag: bovine science

Tox Talk: Lead Poisoning in Young Calves

Posted on by

In this episode of Tox Talk on Bovine Science, Dr. Brad White and Dr. Scott Fritz discuss a case where multiple two-month-old calves in a dry lot died with minimal clinical signs. Initial differentials included infectious disease, nutritional issues, and ryegrass staggers, but necropsy and testing were largely unrewarding. Ultimately, elevated tissue lead levels confirmed lead poisoning, even though no clear source was identified. The case highlights the importance of considering lead toxicity in young calves with neurologic signs, especially when they have access to areas outside their normal environment.

Podcast (bovine-science-with-bci): Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Spotify | RSS

Herd Health: Bull Soundness Exam

Posted on by

In this episode of Herd Health on Bovine Science, the experts discuss a recent study on factors associated with bull breeding soundness exam (BSE) failure. The veterinarians explain that both intrinsic factors, such as age and prior failure, and extrinsic factors, such as season and environmental conditions, influence whether a bull passes or fails. They highlight that sperm morphology is one of the most important indicators of fertility, often more predictive than other measures. Overall, the episode emphasizes interpreting BSE results in context to make better management and culling decisions.

Article Discussed

Podcast (bovine-science-with-bci): Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Spotify | RSS

After the Abstract: Methylene Blue Withdrawal in Cattle

Posted on by

In this episode of BCI After the Abstract, the veterinarians explore a pharmacokinetic study on the use of methylene blue in cattle to determine safe withdrawal periods after treatment. The experts walk through how researchers tracked drug levels in blood, milk, and tissues to estimate when residues fall below safe thresholds. They emphasize that previous guidance lacked data, forcing veterinarians to rely on highly conservative withdrawal times. With this new evidence, practitioners can better balance effective treatment of nitrate toxicity with responsible residue avoidance in food animals.

Article Discussed

Podcast (bovine-science-with-bci): Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Spotify | RSS

Diving into Diets: Organic vs. Inorganic Minerals in Beef Cattle

Posted on by

In this episode of Diving Into Diets on Bovine Science with BCI, the experts discuss a 2025 meta-analysis comparing organic and inorganic trace mineral supplementation in beef cattle during preconditioning and feedlot receiving. They explain the biological differences between mineral sources and review results from about 20 studies included in the analysis. Overall, organic minerals showed a small improvement in average daily gain, but no effect on cattle morbidity. The discussion highlights that while organic minerals may provide slight performance benefits in certain situations, the overall effects are relatively small and context-dependent.

Article Discussed: HERE

Podcast (bovine-science-with-bci): Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Spotify | RSS

After the Abstract: Managing Johne’s Disease in Beef Herds

Posted on by

This episode of After the Abstract reviews a 2025 study on managing Johne’s disease in beef cattle using different testing and culling strategies in a modeled 300-cow herd. The results showed that testing cows every six months reduced disease prevalence the most, but was the least profitable strategy, even compared with doing nothing. Testing every 24 months provided the best economic balance, lowering prevalence moderately while maintaining the highest net return. The discussion also emphasizes that the prevalence of Johne’s disease in purchased replacement cattle and strong biosecurity practices may influence herd outcomes more than frequent testing.

Article Discused: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41472190/

Podcast (bovine-science-with-bci): Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Spotify | RSS

Herd Health: Modified Live Vaccines at Synchronization

Posted on by

In this episode of Herd Health, the experts review a 2025 study evaluating whether modified live virus (MLV) vaccines can be given at the time of CIDR placement for timed AI in beef cows. In previously vaccinated, multiparous cows about 80 days postpartum, administering an MLV vaccine at synchronization did not negatively affect estrus response, AI pregnancy rates, overall pregnancy rates, pregnancy loss, calving timing, or calf weaning weights. Total pregnancy rates were around 95%, with no significant differences between vaccinated and control groups. The findings suggest that giving an MLV vaccine at synchronization is safe in well-vaccinated adult cows, though results may not apply to naïve heifers.

Article Discussed

Podcast (bovine-science-with-bci): Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Spotify | RSS

Tox Talk: Nitrate Poisoning in Cattle

Posted on by

On this episode of Tox Talk, Dr. Brad White and Dr. Scott Fritz discuss a case where eight bred cows were moved into a barn ahead of a winter storm and were found dead the next morning. While initial concerns focused on the barn environment, testing revealed the cause was acute nitrate poisoning from newly introduced millet hay containing high nitrate levels. Nitrate toxicity can cause rapid death, often within hours, and may leave few obvious signs. This case is a reminder to consider what has changed when sudden losses occur, especially feed sources. Certain forages, including millet and other stress-grown crops, can accumulate nitrates, and toxicity persists after baling. Testing unfamiliar or newly purchased hay can help prevent devastating losses.

Podcast (bovine-science-with-bci): Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Spotify | RSS

Diving into Diets: Phosphorus and Calcium in Lactating Beef Cows

Posted on by

In this episode of Diving into Diets, the discussion examines how different phosphorus and calcium diets affect phosphorus retention, milk composition, calf growth, and bone status in beef cattle. While cows on lower-phosphorus diets maintained milk production and calf growth in the short term, they mobilized phosphorus from bone, unlike cows on high-phosphorus, high-calcium diets. The takeaway is that cows are resilient and can tolerate short-term deficiencies, but inadequate long-term mineral intake may eventually impair performance, underscoring the need for appropriate supplementation.

Article Discussed: https://era.dpi.qld.gov.au/id/eprint/14721/1/AN24216.pdf

Podcast (bovine-science-with-bci): Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Spotify | RSS

Herd Health: Synchronization Strategies for Heifers and Cows

Posted on by

This episode of Herd Health explores how cattle producers and veterinarians can choose the most effective estrus synchronization and fixed-time AI protocols for heifers and cows. Dr. Bob Larson explains that there is no single “best” protocol. Instead, the right choice depends on factors such as whether you are dealing with heifers or cows, time available, group size, handling logistics, and cost. The discussion highlights the roles of progesterone, GnRH, and prostaglandin, compares common protocols, and emphasizes using trusted resources such as the Beef Reproduction Task Force and working closely with veterinarians to ensure proper execution and consistent results.

Beef Reproduction Task Force

Podcast (bovine-science-with-bci): Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Spotify | RSS

After the Abstract: Predicting Bovine Respiratory Disease with Water Intake

Posted on by

In this episode of About the Abstract, Dr. Brad White and Dr. Todd Gunderson discussed a study that tested whether water intake can predict bovine respiratory disease (BRD). The study’s main finding was that water intake decreased 1–2 days before BRD treatment or diagnosis. The study also found that the amount of water consumed mattered more than the number of visits or the time spent at the waterer. The cattle treated multiple times for BRD consistently drank less water than healthy cattle. The main takeaway from the study was that monitoring water intake per visit to the waterer is more important than monitoring cattle behavior. 

Article Discussed: https://www.sciencedirect.com/journal/preventive-veterinary-medicine

Podcast (bovine-science-with-bci): Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Spotify | RSS

Diving into Diets: Volatile Fatty Acids

Posted on by

On Dividing into Diets, Dr. Brad White and Dr. Philip Lancaster explore how a ruminant’s diet influences the production of volatile fatty acids (VFAs), such as acetate, propionate, and butyrate, created through the fermentation of carbohydrates and proteins in the rumen. They explain that different types of feed support different bacterial populations, shifting the balance of VFAs. For example, grain-heavy diets boost propionate levels, while high-forage diets favor acetate. Despite these shifts, overall animal efficiency depends more on the total amount of volatile fatty acids produced than on the specific proportions. The experts note that attempts to manipulate VFA ratios can be expensive and often yield only minor improvements in productivity.

Podcast (bovine-science-with-bci): Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Spotify | RSS

Herd Health: Estrus Synchronization Protocols in Heifers vs. Cows

Posted on by

On today’s episode of Herd Health, Dr. Brad White and Dr. Bob Larson discuss how to choose the best synchronization protocol for artificial insemination in cattle. They explain the differences between protocols for heifers and cows, including timing, hormone use, and management considerations. The discussion highlights the importance of resources like the Beef Reproduction Task Force website and factors such as chute time, cost, and herd size. 

Episode Resource: https://beefrepro.org/

Podcast (bovine-science-with-bci): Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Spotify | RSS

Herd Health: Heifer Selection Strategies

Posted on by

On Herd Health, Dr. Brad White and Dr. Bob Larson discuss a 2025 study in the Canadian Journal of Animal Science on factors influencing heifer replacement and cow-calf profitability. The study focused on cow feed efficiency, longevity, heterosis, and lifetime productivity. Key findings include the importance of longevity, with heifers staying longer in the herd being more profitable. Crossbreeding, particularly those with more heterosis, reduced costs. Residual feed intake (RFI) was crucial, with lower RFI cows being more efficient and cost-effective. The study used data from 2011 to 2018, accounting for economic fluctuations, and found no significant differences between breeds.

Article Discussed: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/385812533_Effects_of_cow_feed_efficiency_longevity_heterosis_and_lifetime_productivity_on_profitability_of_heifer_selection_and_cow-calf_operations 

Podcast (bovine-science-with-bci): Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Spotify | RSS

About the Abstract: Bovine Coronavirus

Posted on by

Dr. Brad White and Dr. Todd Gunderson discuss a study on bovine coronavirus and its role in respiratory disease in cattle. The study, published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science, used a challenge model with 15 challenge calves and six control calves. Results showed higher viral shedding in challenge calves. PCR detected bovine coronavirus in multiple tissues but not in the lungs or tracheobronchial lymph nodes. Histopathology scores indicated more pathology in challenge calves, but clinical signs were mild. The study suggests bovine coronavirus may play a role in mild respiratory disease but not in severe pneumonia, possibly acting as a co-factor for secondary infections.

Article Discussed: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/veterinary-science/articles/10.3389/fvets.2022.878240/full

Podcast (bovine-science-with-bci): Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Spotify | RSS

Herd Health: Passive Transfer

Posted on by

Dr. Brad White and Dr. Bob Larson discuss the failure of passive transfer in beef herds, highlighting differences from dairy cattle. Risk factors included calves born to heifers, twins, and assisted births. Higher body condition scores in cows also correlated with lower IgG levels. The study emphasized the importance of colostrum intake, especially in high-risk situations. The discussion emphasizes the need for targeted management strategies in beef cattle.

Article Discussed: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2643452/

Podcast (bovine-science-with-bci): Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Spotify | RSS

About the Abstract: Antimicrobial Metaphylaxis Study

Posted on by

In About the Abstract, the experts discuss a study by Cordial and Carrie (2024) in the Journal of Animal Science, which compared the impact of metaphylaxis with Tulathromycin versus saline on high-risk beef stocker calves over 42 days. The study found that calves treated with Tulathromycin had higher average daily gain, especially in the first 14 days, and fewer treatments for respiratory disease. Culture results showed more bacteria in saline-treated calves at follow-up. Antimicrobial use was higher in the Tulathromycin group, but the number of regimens was similar. The study suggests that metaphylaxis may improve health and performance while managing antimicrobial resistance.

Featured Article: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38126883

Podcast (bovine-science-with-bci): Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Spotify | RSS

Tox Talk: Sudden Death in Fall-Calving Herd

Posted on by

In this Tox Talk episode, Dr. Brad White and Dr. Scott Fritz review a case involving six dead calves out of 38 fall-calving cow–calf pairs on pasture. The producer had not been checking the herd frequently, making the exact timeline of deaths unclear. With at least one calf estimated to have been dead for 4–5 days. They emphasize how decomposition, weather, and time since death affect necropsy value. Initial differential diagnoses focus on infectious causes and potential toxicities, given that only calves were affected.

Podcast (bovine-science-with-bci): Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Spotify | RSS

Herd Health: Diagnosing an Aborted Fetus

Posted on by

Brad White and Dr. Bob Larson discuss a case where a client found an aborted fetus in their herd. Dr. Larson suggests identifying the aborting animal, collecting samples from the fetus, including the placenta, lung, liver, and brain, and holding them for further analysis. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the herd’s history, including the age and origin of the cows, and potential causes like Neospora, IVR, BVD, and feed contamination.

Podcast (bovine-science-with-bci): Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Spotify | RSS

Herd Health: Weaned Calved with Bloody Diarrhea

Posted on by

On today’s episode of Herd Health, Dr. Bob Larson and Dr. Brad White talk about a ranch that reported weaned calves with bloody diarrhea after being mixed from four pastures. Coccidiosis was at the top of the list for possible issues, with other potential causes to look at. They discuss potential cases of bloody diarrhea and the ways to treat and prevent the issues. 

Podcast (bovine-science-with-bci): Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Spotify | RSS

Diving into Diets: Essential Oils in Feed Rations Part 3

Posted on by

In this episode of Diving into Diets, Dr. Brad White and Dr. Phillip Lancaster finish up the essential oils in feed rations series with another article. The experts discuss how essential oils compare to commonly used feed additives like Monensin.

Article Discussed: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S109002332100054X

Podcast (bovine-science-with-bci): Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Spotify | RSS

Diving into Diets: Essential Oils in Rations, Part 2

Posted on by

In this episode of Bovine Science, Dr. Phillip Lancaster continues the series with an article that looks into the use of essential oils in feed rations. In part two of the Essential Oils in Rations series, they talk about the different benefits and effects of adding the oils to your feed.

Article Discussed: https://www.mdpi.com/2311-5637/8/6/254

Podcast (bovine-science-with-bci): Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Spotify | RSS

Tox Talk: High Culling Rates

Posted on by

A 2,000 cow dairy is seeing high culling rates due to lameness but not the typical lameness they are used to. What is wrong? Dr. Brad White and Dr. Scott Fritz will discuss.

The toxicology website and Bovine Sciences with BCI podcasts have been sponsored in part through a veterinary services grant that Dr. Scott Fritz, Dr. Steve Ensley, and Dr. Bob Larson have received to share more toxicology information and examples for people to understand what to submit and how to submit. Another part of that grant has been working with people and producers in the field.

Podcast (bovine-science-with-bci): Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Spotify | RSS

Diving into Diets: Essential Oils in Feed Rations

Posted on by

In this episode of Bovine Science, Dr. Phillip Lancaster brings an article that looked into the use of essential oils in feed rations. The experts go over this paper and the styles of research groups used for the experiment.

Article Discussed: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0377840124000841

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Spotify | RSS

Sponsored by ESTROTECT: Sync Program, Repro Tech, Calf Weaning Age

Posted on by

In this week’s episode of Cattle Chat, sponsored by ESTROTECT Breeding Indicators, the team discussed how to use various reproduction technologies to achieve your herd’s genetic goals. Our guest, Dr. Jordan Thomas from the University of Missouri, shared their research on the 7&7 Sync Program and its benefits. Finally, the group talked about the best age to wean calves. 

3:20 Using Repro Tech to Reach Your Herd Goals 

11:40 7&7 Sync Program 
https://extension.missouri.edu/publications/g2023

17:55 Best Age to Wean Calves 

For more on BCI Cattle Chat, follow us on X at @ksubci, Facebook, and Instagram at @ksubci. Check out our website, ksubci.org. If you have any comments/questions/topic ideas, please send them to bci@ksu.edu. You can also email us to sign up for our weekly news blast! Don’t forget, if you enjoy the show, please go give us a rating!

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Spotify | RSS

After the Abstract: Backfat and BSEs

Posted on by

On this episode of After the Abstract, Dr. Todd Gunderson brings a research article which looks at the effects of backfat thickness on results of a breeding soundness exam. Dr. Brad White and Dr. Gunderson go through the article and discuss the issues this study addressed as well as the potential affects of this research.

Article discussed: Relationship between phenotypic subcutaneous backfat thickness and spermiogram outcomes in young beef bulls

Podcast (bovine-science-with-bci): Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Spotify | RSS