Challenging the way we’ve always done things: Managing chronic pens, fitness to transport and other welfare-type issues on the feedlot

Chronic cattle, those with persistent injuries or diseases, pose significant welfare, economic, and ethical concerns for feed­lot operations. This presentation will explore the epidemiol­ogy, management strategies, and future research directions for chronic cattle. Data from North American feedlots were analyzed to understand chronicity’s prevalence, causes and outcomes. Findings highlight the importance of early diag­nosis, appropriate treatment, and humane euthanasia when necessary. Emerging technologies, such as remote monitoring systems, offer the potential for improved disease detection and management. Future research should focus on developing evi­dence-based guidelines for chronic cattle care and addressing the behavioral impact of chronic conditions on both animals and caretakers.