Ranch-management factors associated with antibody seropositivity for Neospora caninum in consignments of beef calves in Texas, USA

Prev Vet Med. 2001 Nov 2;52(1):53-61. doi: 10.1016/s0167-5877(01)00233-1.

Abstract

A study was conducted with a 1998 retained-ownership population of Texas (USA) beef calves to determine the ranch-management practices associated with calf seroprevalence to Neospora caninum. Management practices of 76 Texas ranches that consigned 760 calves to a retained-ownership feedlot program were reviewed from a mailed questionnaire. Ninety-nine of 760 (13%; 95% CI, 9.4%, 17.7%) calves were positive to N. caninum and 59% of the ranches consigned at least one positive calf. In the logistic multiple-regression model which controlled for overdispersion, increased odds of calf-level seropositivity was associated with seasonal calving patterns, with stocking>1cow/calfunit/2.2ha, using a round-bale feeder, allowing wildlife access to the weaning supplement, and self-reared replacement heifers. However, decreased odds of seropositivity was associated with using a cattle-working dog and with using a self-contained cattle feeder. There was substantial overdispersion due to ranch.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animal Husbandry*
  • Animals
  • Animals, Wild
  • Cattle
  • Cattle Diseases / epidemiology*
  • Cattle Diseases / etiology
  • Coccidiosis / epidemiology*
  • Coccidiosis / etiology
  • Coccidiosis / veterinary*
  • Dogs
  • Male
  • Neospora / pathogenicity*
  • Regression Analysis
  • Risk Factors
  • Serologic Tests