Field trial of non-antibiotic treatment of postpartum uterine disease in dairy cows

Lead Applicant: Stephen LeBlanc

Research Priority: Animal Health & Welfare Projects

Program Type: Tier 1

Funding Cycle: 2022/2023

Research Centre: NA

Research Summary: Treating uterine disease (metritis) is a leading reason for antibiotic use in dairy cows. In Ontario, the most commonly used drug, ceftiofur, is approved but is in the highest category of importance for human health. We will work with commercial dairy farms to conduct a randomized controlled trial of an approved non-antibiotic, anti-inflammatory treatment (ketoprofen) vs. a positive control of conventional antibiotic therapy with ceftiofur. As a result, we expect that we will be able to reduce antibiotic use by 30% while maintaining comparable health and performance outcomes, leading to a more competitive and socially acceptable position for the Ontario dairy industry.