Farmers the length and breadth of Ireland are reporting a major problem with pneumonia this autumn – with young calves and older cattle being impacted in equal measure. Autumn is traditionally a time when pneumonia and other respiratory-related problems crop up on dairy farms.

The transition from a grazing to a housed environment is at the core of the problem. However, it seems that the autumn of 2020, with its wide fluctuations in weather, has conspired to create a significantly larger respiratory challenge than would normally be expected.

But, as Luke Morgan from Caltech Crystalyx is quick to point out: Prevention is better than cure, where these matters are concerned.

“Pneumonia will kill or, at the very least, will hamper growth rates significantly in calves, weanlings and older stores,” he said.

Given the growing awareness of antimicrobial resistance within Irish agriculture, farmers are increasingly loath to use antibiotics. The only way of ensuring this approach is not required is to prevent the problem form rising in the first place.

He continued: “Older animals should have access to a straw bedded area at housing, where comfort is a priority, and left to settle into their new surroundings for at least 24 to 48 hours. This advice is equally relevant for home-bred and bought-in animals.

“Only after that should management procedures such as worming, fluking and vaccinating take place. It is also critically important that finishing animals should be batched in numbers that allow them the space they need and that ample fresh water is available at all times.

“Where young calves are concerned, they should be deep bedded in straw and housed in a draught-free environment. Providing the highest levels of comfort is critically important.”

The Crystalyx representative went on to confirm that encouraging animals to maintain their airways fully open at all times will help prevent the onset of respiratory problems.

He commented: “This is where Crystalyx Easy Breather can play a critically important role.

“It is a feed lick specially designed to alleviate stress and respiratory problems in calves and growing cattle.

“Respiratory problems in young animals are most prevalent in autumn and winter, especially when the animals are housed. Containing menthol and eucalyptus, Easy Breather offers a natural aid to maintain a healthy respiratory system.”

Luke also confirmed that calves and weanlings are particularly prone to respiratory problems, as they have not developed any natural immunity to many infectious organisms.

“The severity of the problems can vary from a mild nasal discharge and coughing in a group of calves, to severe pneumonia with some deaths,” he added.

Easy Breather optimises performance by stimulating forage intakes and digestibility while providing all essential mineral, trace elements and vitamins. It helps animals regain appetite after a stress or challenge.

“In essence, Easy Breather is a powerful, natural aid to help calves resist respiratory challenges. The product also reduces the risk of growth checks.”

These are messages that have not been lost on Seamus and Aidan Foody. The father and son team, who farm near Ballina in Co. Mayo, own the renowned Sprucegrove Holstein herd.

L-R: Aurivo branch manager Donal Toughy; Aidan Foody; Seamus Foody; and Caltech Crystalyx account manager Luke Morgan

“We are milking 120 cows at the present time,” Aidan explained. “The herd is currently averaging 10,000L. We averaged 680kg of milk solids per cow in 2019.”

The Foodys calve their cows the year round. They target a 24-month calving age for their heifers. Surplus heifers are sold on a regular basis to customers throughout the island of Ireland.

“Giving our calves the best possible start is crucially important,” Seamus explained. “That means feeding them well and making sure that they are as comfortable as possible at all times.”

He confirmed that respiratory problems had been an issue from time to time in the past, adding:

Pneumonia can be a tremendous setback for young calves. And even if they recover, it is very hard to get them fully back on track from a growth and development point of view.

The Foodys have placed Easy Breather feed buckets in all their calf pens this autumn.

“The calves really love the licks,” Aidan confirmed. “What’s more they are all extremely healthy. We have not had any respiratory problems to deal with since the autumn-calving season got underway.”

Easy Breather feed blocks are available from all Aurivo Home Store outlets. Donal Tuohy, manager of the Ballina branch, was a recent visitor to Spruceview Holsteins.

He commented: “Pneumonia is a real problem in claves and young cattle. Farmers recognise the need to prevent the problem. As a consequence, sales of Easy Breather have taken off over the past few weeks.”

More information

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