Home > Crops & Livestock > Livestock > Animal Health > Beef Cattle > Bovine Viral Diarrhea Virus (BVD) of Cattle [Image: brahman bull standing in pasture] BVD is a viral disease of cattle that can cause clinical disease and subclinical production losses. This article discusses the common signs of this disease and how to manage it. Facts About Antibiotic Use in Beef Cattle [Image: Facts About Antibiotic Use in Beef Cattle] This fact sheet list talking points about antibiotic use in beef cattle. Infertility in Cattle [Image: Infertility in Cattle] This fact sheet discusses both infectious and non-infectious causes of infertility in cattle. Bull Breeding Soundness Evaluations [Image: Brahman bull on pasture] Performing breeding soundness evaluations on herd bulls is a sound investment for beef cow-calf operations. A bull breeding soundness evaluation (BSE) is a uniform method of assessing a bull’s likelihood of accomplishing pregnancy in an appropriate number of open, healthy, cycling cows or heifers in a defined breeding season.  more articles... Bovine Trichomoniasis [Image: Bovine Trichomoniasis ] Trichomoniasis is a bovine venereal disease that can cause substantial reproductive and economic loss in cow-calf operations that use natural service. Many states, including Louisiana, now have regulations on movement of bulls to prevent the spread of trichomoniasis. Pinkeye in Beef Cattle [Image: Bayou Beef Tips Pinkeye in Beef Cattle] There are many cattle diseases to be concerned about as a producer, but pinkeye is one of the more highly contagious diseases. It is an infectious bacterial disease of the eye of cattle caused by Moraxella bovis. Review the causes, transmission, symptoms, and treatment of Pinkeye. Cow Nutrition Affects Calf Health And Herd Productivity For Years [Image: black calves eating feed from trough] Winter feeding costs are a major expense in cow-calf herds. So, selecting a winter feeding program that is cost-efficient is imperative. However, making sure nutrient requirements are met during this time is critical to future profitability. An investment now can pay dividends for years to come. Aflatoxins in Feeds Is there an absolutely safe level? The answer is probably no. For beef cows, including pregnant cows, a maximum of 100 ppb in the total diet appears to be a practical answer. Poisonous Plants for Louisiana Livestock in the Fall [Image: Senna occidentalis] Images of major poisonous plants are presented to assist livestock owners with plant recognition. Toxic effects are also mentioned. Understanding The Virus Complex [Image: Newsletter image] Understanding the virus complex is not easy, but because it causes significant disease problems, abortion and shipping fever, it is best we understand what all the letters mean and how to best deal with them. Anaplasmosis in Cattle [Image: Anaplasma Organism in a Red Blood Cell of a cow] Anaplasmosis is characterized by anemia, which is caused by the destruction of the red blood cells by Anaplasma marginale, a blood parasite, transmitted to beef and dairy cattle by insects. The Anaplasmosis vaccine is made, produced and available by LSU Veterinary Science retired faculty, and a royalty is paid to the LSU AgCenter. If you have questions about Anaplasmosis or the availability of the vaccine, please call 1-800-308-5242. Keeping Show Animals Healthy [Image: girl brushing show pig] This article discusses common diseases in show animals and how to prevent them. Photosensitization in Cattle and Horses Photosensitization, also known as photodermatitis, occurs when the liver is unable to excrete a metabolite of chlorophyll from forages the animal has eaten. The metabolite accumulates in the skin and is activated by sunlight. The reaction yields free radicals that "burn" the skin. Anthrax in Louisiana [Image: Horse with swelling] Anthrax in livestock and horses is described. Topics discussed include: A brief history of the disease, persistance of spores in soil, clinical signs, what to do if anthrax suspected, diagnosis, treatment, prevention and control. Click for more information...