Even during the coldest of winters, resilient parasites have proven to survive by simply overwintering in cattle or pastures, according Drovers CattleNetwork.
“It is important for producers from all geographies to implement a spring deworming program to help give cows a chance to rebound from the tough winter, be productive during calving and, ultimately, be ready for the next breeding season, ” said Dr. Gary Sides, Zoetis Cattle Technical Services.
It’s estimated that internal parasites cost the cattle industry about $3 billion each year in lost weight gains from suppressed appetites, poor feed conversion and increased diseases.
“Fighting parasites that have overwintered on pastures is a simple, low-cost process and something every cow-calf producer should take advantage of during branding or turnout,” Sides said. “By combining effective products with the expertise of their local veterinarians, producers can easily develop an effective parasite control program that best suits their herd and geography.”