References
Parasitic control at housing in cattle: a modern rationale
Abstract
Anthelmintic treatment at housing remains the cornerstone of common nematode and trematode management in the UK, taking advantage of the low re-infection risk once away from pasture. Treatment removes any endoparasite burdens acquired during the grazing season and reduces effects on productivity through the winter, as well as levels of larvae and eggs shed onto the pasture at spring turnout. This article covers the four most common parasitic disease complexes encountered in the UK that benefit from treatment at housing.
Modern-day parasite control is made up of a range of factors. Historically, anthelmintics were relied upon heavily. However, with the emergence of increasing evidence of resistance, a more integrated framework of management practices is needed, for example, in grazing management, genetics and nutrition. Anthelmintic use at housing is still the cornerstone of control, due to the low risk of re-infection once cattle are away from pasture. Anthelmintic resistance is already widely reported in sheep with more reports emerging of resistance in cattle (Baiak et al, 2018). Efforts to reduce and target the use of these drugs, should be the focus over the next few years. Knowledge of the parasite populations present on a farm, as well as of levels of pasture contamination and immunity levels, is key to tailoring parasite control plans for individual farms.
The Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board's (AHDB) (2020) parasite control guide provides all anthelmintic preparations currently available for cattle. Anthelmintic classes available include the following:
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