Biosecurity essential for livestock health on farms and ranches

By Scout Nelson

Biosecurity is crucial for maintaining animal health and preventing diseases on livestock farms. It plays a vital role in reducing and preventing the spread of diseases on farms and ranches.

Dr. Rosslyn Biggs, a clinical assistant professor at Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine and a beef cattle extension specialist, highlights the importance of biosecurity. “Biosecurity measures are critical in safeguarding livestock health and productivity by minimizing the risk of infectious diseases,” Biggs stated.

Wildlife can act as carriers of infectious agents that threaten livestock health, causing illness, economic losses, and public health concerns. Effective biosecurity strategies are essential to reduce the transmission of diseases from wildlife to cattle.

Biggs advises that disease risk assessments should be conducted with a veterinarian when deciding which practices to implement. Additionally, the need for biodiversity on the farm must be considered.

Basic biosecurity measures can help producers minimize disease risks, including those from wildlife interactions. Daily monitoring of livestock for signs of illness is essential, and any unauthorized cattle should be kept off the farm to limit exposure.

Any unusual symptoms or deaths, including those in wildlife, should be reported to the operation’s veterinarian and animal health officials. Symptoms to watch for include loss of appetite, low-grade fever, nasal discharge, abortions, neurological issues, or death.

Protecting livestock from wildlife-borne diseases requires a multifaceted approach that combines practical and economically feasible management strategies.

Implementing biosecurity measures tailored to specific wildlife risks can help producers reduce disease transmission, promote animal welfare, and create sustainable production systems.

Biggs also notes that managing wildlife populations at appropriate levels can enhance biosecurity and environmental health.

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