MANAGEMENT practices, such selection of feeder cattle, backgrounding, vaccination, and induction protocols, can have a significant impact on reducing stress factors in feedlot cattle. These practices will not only reduce the incidence of Bovine Respiratory Disease (BRD), but help newly-arrived cattle to adapt quickly to the feedlot environment. The purchase of cattle directly from breeders can minimise stress that may result from handling, co-mingling, dehydration or injury associated with saleyards.Ideally, cattle should be sourced from producers who yard-wean their cattle. Weaning is a critical learning time for young cattle. Housing freshly-weaned calves in suitable yards with good quality hay or silage for 7-10 days will condition the calf to accept confinement, accept different food and water sources and improve socialisation skills, resulting in faster adaptation to feedlot conditions.
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