Over the past decade, bovine congestive heart failure (BCHF) has emerged as one of the biggest threats to the health and productivity of cattle on feed.

In high school biology, we were introduced to the fact that a phenotype is a function of genetics and environment. As cattle producers, we are constantly trying to optimize these two pieces.

A recent study published in Frontiers in Genetics, conducted by Randall Raymond – director of research and veterinary services for Simplot Livestock in Grand View – and colleagues, highlights bovine congestive heart failure's prevalence in feedyards and its impacts on cattle health, offering mitigation insights.

Using an EPD versus an animal’s phenotype is an ongoing debate among cattlemen. The question really boils down to whether the animal’s actual performance or the performance of its offspring is your primary interest.