Transitioning a heifer calf into a productive, long-term member of the breeding herd requires attention to many important factors, including nutrition, genetic and breeding decisions, and environmental management. Disease and health challenges, however, can undermine all that work.

The first 24 to 48 hours of a calf’s life can spell the difference between a calf that thrives and grows with minimal intervention on our part and a calf that always seems to be behind the eight ball, lagging behind its herdmates and requiring more care and treatment to keep it going.

The term “antibiotic stewardship” might sound high level, but it’s something cattle producers and veterinarians practice every day. In human health care, antibiotic stewardship means ensuring that antibiotics are used only when necessary and appropriate.