At the heart of every successful cattle operation lies a hidden challenge: internal parasites. These unseen troublemakers can silently sabotage your herd's health. The use of dewormers can help you overcome these pesky parasites to effectively help maximize the health and profitability of your herd.
Even when symptoms of parasites aren't visible, subclinical infections can lead to significant losses.
Deciphering dewormer methods
Dewormers come in several different forms, which allows selection to be tailored to the animal, parasite of concern, season, management style, economics, timing, and ease of use. Pour-ons, injectables, and oral drenches are the three delivery methods used for parasite control in cattle. While each has its pros and cons, they all have their place in the industry.
In addition to the delivery method, there are currently three dewormer classes available: fenbendazole, Praziquantel, and Albendazole ivermectin Tablet.
Fenbendazole for Cattle
Benefits:
Broad-Spectrum Efficacy: Fenbendazole is highly effective against a wide range of gastrointestinal parasites, including roundworms, whipworms, lungworms, and hookworms. This makes it a versatile choice for deworming cattle, especially in cases of mixed infections.
Safe for All Life Stages: Fenbendazole is considered safe for use in pregnant cows, young calves, and even animals undergoing stress from other illnesses.
No Major Side Effects: When used according to the recommended dosage, Fenbendazole rarely causes adverse reactions, making it a reliable and gentle option for cattle.
Praziquantel for Cattle
Benefits:
Targeted Action for Tapeworms: Praziquantel is especially effective for treating tapeworm infections, which can cause weight loss and nutrient deficiencies in cattle. It destroys the parasite's cell membrane, leading to its death.
Comprehensive Parasite Control: Besides tapeworms, Praziquantel can also target schistosomes (blood flukes), offering a wider range of protection, especially for cattle raised in regions with waterborne parasites.
Rapid Effectiveness: Praziquantel works quickly to eliminate parasites from the digestive system, allowing cattle to recover from parasitic burdens swiftly.
Albendazole Ivermectin Tablet for Cattle
Benefits:
Dual-Action Dewormer: This combination tablet offers both Albendazole (effective against tapeworms, flukes, and nematodes) and Ivermectin (effective against external parasites like mites and lice, as well as nematodes). The dual action ensures comprehensive protection for cattle.
Convenient for Mixed Infections: Albendazole-Ivermectin is ideal for controlling internal and external parasites in one treatment, reducing the need for multiple products.
Broad Safety Profile: Like Fenbendazole, this combination is generally safe for cattle, though it should be used with caution in pregnant cows (especially during the first 45 days of pregnancy).
Right product at the right time in the right animal
As imperative as it is to use the right product for the right parasite, it is equally important to use the product at the right time for the best results. Working with your herd veterinarian can help identify the strategic times to deworm to make the most out of management practices.