Momento Zoetis, epi. 01 - Verminoses em bovinos e controle estratégico

Summary

In the 'Momento Zoetis' program, Pablo Paiva and Hélio Moro discuss the significant economic impact of parasitic infections in cattle, costing the industry around 7 billion dollars annually. They emphasize the importance of strategic deworming, particularly for calves around 4-5 months old, which can add up to 9.4 kg more weight at weaning. The program also highlights the benefits of deworming during the dry season in Central Brazil, with a focus on improving cattle productivity and health through effective parasite control strategies.

Takeaways

• 🐂 Parasitism in cattle, particularly helminthiasis, causes significant economic losses, estimated at 14 billion dollars, with half of this amount attributed to helminthiasis.
• 🔍 Modern cattle farming practices have reduced the clinical manifestations of helminthiasis, leading to a rise in subclinical cases that impact animal performance and farm productivity.
• 📈 Subclinical helminthiasis is now more prevalent and can affect weight gain and overall productivity, with implications for pre-weaned calves and post-weaned heifers.
• 💊 The importance of deworming calves around 4-5 months of age is highlighted, with studies showing significant weight gains in dewormed calves compared to those not treated.
• 📅 Strategic deworming programs are recommended, starting with calves at 4-5 months and continuing post-weaning, with treatments in May, August, and November being effective for controlling helminthiasis.
• 🌱 The dry season, particularly from May to October, is a critical period for helminthiasis in cattle, and deworming during this time can improve immunity and reproductive success.
• 🐄 Adult cattle, especially in central Brazil, may have developed some immunity to internal parasites but are still susceptible during the dry season, affecting their health and reproductive capabilities.
• 📊 Studies have shown that deworming adult cattle and heifers during the dry season can increase pregnancy rates and overall herd health.
• 🚫 The necessity of deworming is emphasized, especially for farms that do not follow a structured breeding season, to ensure the health and productivity of the herd.
• 📆 The timing of deworming is crucial, with recommendations for treating calves before weaning and continuing with strategic treatments post-weaning to maximize health and productivity benefits.

Q & A

What is the estimated global economic loss caused by parasitism in cattle?

The estimated global economic loss caused by parasitism in cattle is 14 billion dollars.

How much of the total economic loss is attributed to helminthiasis in cattle?

Half of the total economic loss, which is about 7 billion dollars, is attributed to helminthiasis in cattle.

What is the current manifestation of helminthiasis in cattle due to advancements in livestock management?

Currently, helminthiasis in cattle often presents as subclinical cases, impacting performance and productivity rather than showing the past clinical signs like anemia and pale mucous membranes.

At what age is it recommended to start deworming calves to maximize benefits?

It is recommended to start deworming calves around four to five months of age to maximize benefits.

What is the benefit of deworming calves with moxidectin at four months of age?

Deworming calves with moxidectin at four months of age can result in an additional weight gain of 9.4 kg compared to those not dewormed.

What is the strategic control program for helminthiasis post-weaning?

The strategic control program for helminthiasis post-weaning involves deworming at strategic times such as the beginning of the dry season, mid-dry season, and the beginning of the wet season, which are May, August, and November.

How much additional weight can be gained by implementing the strategic control program for helminthiasis post-weaning?

Implementing the strategic control program can result in an additional 30 to 40 kilograms per animal from weaning to 20-24 months of age.

What alternative deworming protocol is suggested if managing deworming in August is challenging?

If managing deworming in August is challenging, an alternative protocol of deworming in May and November with a product that has a long-lasting effect, such as moxidectin, is suggested.

What is the impact of helminthiasis on reproductive females during the dry season?

During the dry season, helminthiasis can affect the immunity of reproductive females, potentially interfering with reproduction. Deworming can help improve their condition and the future of the herd.

What is the recommendation for deworming adult cows during the dry season?

It is recommended to deworm adult cows during the dry season, especially at the beginning of the breeding season or at the start of the dry period, to improve their condition and reproductive success.

What is the benefit of deworming at the start of the breeding season with ivermectin?

Deworming at the start of the breeding season with ivermectin can increase the conception rate and overall health of the cows, leading to better productivity and weight gain.