How are animal antibiotics used by beef producers? Are they used preventatively?
Antibiotics, administered through either injections or in feed, are used to treat and control the spread of illnesses such as pneumonia, bacterial infections and diseases of the intestinal tract. Beef producers work in conjunction with veterinarians, following the Producer Guidelines for Judicious Use of Antimicrobials, which outline the appropriate uses for antibiotics. Just like any medication, a recommended dosage is part of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval process for antibiotics. It is important to treat sick animals because healthy animals lead to safe and wholesome food. When working quickly to treat sick cattle, producers consult veterinarians to administer the correct type and amount of medication. Using antibiotics as a widespread preventative measure is not only bad veterinary practice, it is simply too expensive.