THE INCIDENCE, CAUSES, AND FINANCIAL IMPACT OF PERINATAL-MORTALITY INNORTH-AMERICAN BEEF HERDS

This article contains a brief overview of the magnitude and causes of perinatal calf mortality (PCM). A PATH model chart of the risk factors of PCM is presented as a foundation for preparation of herd-managemen t programs to prevent PCM, for herd investigations to control excessiv e PCM, or to plan seminars for livestock producers on control of PCM. The financial impact of PCM is explored through discussions of expense s associated with PCM, management decisions after calf deaths, and a c omparison of the financial losses of PCM with losses incurred through pregnancy failure.