Page 29 - WCA December Ketch Pen 2020

“If you’re not fecal-sampling your cattle prior to deworming, you’re just guessing your herd is infested with parasites, when that may not be the case,” said Franz. “We’ve gone out and taken fecal samples before, only to find out there weren’t any parasites.”
When conducting a fecal egg count or a fecal egg count reduction test, it’s also important to determine the predominant worm species present in your herd. Your veterinarian may then suggest the use of concomitant therapy to ensure your animals are protected.
Two dewormers may be better than one
Concomitant therapy is the practice of using two or more dewormers of different classes. This multi-pronged approach allows producers to kill a greater percentage of the parasites present in their cattle herd.
“By incorporating both macrocyclic lactones and benzimidazoles into a parasite-control program, thus utilizing two different modes of action, we can kill a larger spectrum of parasites within the herd, and more effectively reduce the risk of them developing resistance on any given pasture,” said Dr. Nichols.
When his previous supply of dewormer ran out, Franz worked with his local veterinarian to identify an alternative deworming program, which included implementing concomitant therapy.
“Utilizing an injectable dewormer with a white wormer on our calves really paid off,” said Franz. “This practice allowed us to get our fecal egg counts literally down to zero.”
Every producer’s situation is unique; no two herds are the same, and neither are their parasite burdens. That’s why consulting your veterinarian is so important. He or she can help evaluate your operation’s needs, and recommend a deworming protocol and product(s) based on the findings. Your grazing season time frame, the age and class of your animals, your operation type and the grazing history of the pasture are all considerations to discuss.
With a well-planned, strategic deworming program, your animals will be better positioned to achieve increased milk production, improved feed and reproductive efficiencies, and develop stronger immune systems to fight off other diseases.
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December 2020