TCFA Feedyard Technician Certification 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Coughing and nasal discharge are characteristic signs of bovine respiratory disease (BRD), often referred to as "shipping fever." This condition typically arises from a combination of viral and bacterial infections, stress, and environmental factors. When cattle are affected by BRD, their respiratory health is compromised, leading to symptoms such as a persistent cough and discharge from the nose. These symptoms indicate inflammation and irritation in the respiratory tract, which are hallmark features of respiratory illnesses in cattle.

The other options do not indicate health issues associated with BRD. Increased feeding vigor might occur in healthy animals, while bright eyes and alertness are signs of well-being, not illness. Consistent weight gain is generally indicative of good health and optimal management practices, contrasting sharply with the symptoms presented by animals suffering from respiratory diseases. Thus, detecting coughing and nasal discharge is crucial for early diagnosis and intervention in cases of BRD.