Autumn Cattle Parasite Prevention

North Coast Local Land Services is reminding livestock owners that Autumn is the most important time of year to check and treat animals for internal parasites. Worms, coccidia, and liver fluke are most likely to infect livestock over the warm wet summer months and can lead to reduced production and even death in affected animals.

Signs of these internal parasites can include bottle jaw (soft swelling under the jaw), scouring (often dark or bloody), anaemia (pale mucous membranes such as gums, eyelid conjunctiva and vagina), and jaundice (yellowing of mucous membranes as above).

Intestinal worms are a common issue on the North coast, particularly in young animals. Recent research trial work has identified widespread drench resistance in the worm population in this area, so it is important to use strategic parasite control programs and integrated pest management systems.  Worm testing to “measure” the worm burden in animals, including larval identification is recommended in order to select the best drench for your situation before treating animals, and a post-drench worm egg count is recommended to ensure drenching has been effective.

Coccidia are a protozoal parasite that can cause bloody scouring.  They can be an issue in young stock, particularly those kept in crowded conditions (dairy calves, yard weaned beef calves).  A regular worm egg count will usually include a count of coccidia. Treatment can be in the form of coccidiostats in commercial feeds, or an oral product containing toltrazuril.

Liver fluke is a widespread parasite of the North coast region, particularly in high rainfall, swampy or poorly drained areas.  If you know you are in a liver fluke area, it is recommended that all animals are treated in the Autumn with a broad-spectrum flukicide containing triclabendazole or nitroxynil which will target both immature and mature fluke infestations.  If you are not sure whether liver fluke are a problem in your area, blood testing can be performed to identify affected herds.

Treatment products vary widely in their suitability for different stock species and classes, as well as having variable withhold periods, so be sure to read the label carefully before treating livestock.

If you have any questions or would like further advice, please contact your Local Land Services District Veterinarian.