Beef producers now have a way to factor bovine respiratory disease (BRD) risk into breeding decisions, an option that was previously unavailable.
Zoetis has introduced BRD genetic predictions within its INHERIT genetic testing platform. The update allows producers to evaluate cattle based on their genetic likelihood of remaining healthy after weaning and surviving through the feeding phase without BRD-related losses.
BRD remains one of the most costly health challenges in the beef sector. The disease contributes to treatment expenses, reduced performance, and calf mortality. While management and vaccination help limit risk, producers have lacked tools to assess the genetic component of BRD susceptibility.
Measuring BRD Through Genetics
The new predictions are delivered as genomic expected progeny differences (GEPDs). These estimates indicate how an animal’s offspring are expected to perform relative to others in the population.
Three BRD-related genetic measures are now available:
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A prediction for post-weaning BRD health
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A prediction for survival through backgrounding and feeding
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A combined economic index estimating net financial impact per calf
Together, these tools allow producers to evaluate health risk alongside production traits when making breeding decisions.
Data Drawn From Commercial Feedlot Cattle
Zoetis developed the BRD predictions using health and performance records from more than 50,000 cattle across North America. The dataset reflects commercial feedlot conditions and continues to expand as new information is added.
Comparisons between cattle ranked in the top and bottom quartiles showed meaningful differences. Progeny from higher-ranking animals were more likely to avoid BRD treatment, experienced lower death loss, and delivered improved net returns.
Relevance During Herd Rebuilding
The technology arrives as many U.S. producers rebuild cow herds amid high replacement costs. Breeding decisions made today influence herd health, productivity, and longevity for years.
By selecting genetics associated with improved disease resilience, producers can reduce downstream health risk while maintaining focus on economic performance.
Applications for Commercial and Seedstock Operations
Commercial cow-calf producers can use the predictions to guide replacement heifer selection. The goal is to build cow herds that produce healthier, more resilient calves over time.
Seedstock operations can apply the BRD predictions to evaluate and compare sires. The data may help differentiate bulls and provide additional insight for commercial buyers focused on health outcomes and risk management.
The genetic evaluations update regularly as new data enter the system, allowing predictions to evolve alongside the growing reference population.
