Strategic Deworming with a Combination of Products Generates Net Returns, Increases Profitability

Feedlot operators may be unknowingly putting herd heath and profits at risk by not properly deworming cattle, according to new data from Intervet Inc.

The data indicates finishing heifers treated under a strategic deworming program using fenbendazole oral dewormer (Safe-Guard) and ivermectin pour-on generated greater net returns when compared with using a pour-on or injectable alone.

“No single dewormer is equally effective against internal parasites, which is why a combination of treatments results in greater efficacy and improved herd health,” says Chris Reinhardt, Ph.D., Intervet Senior Technical Services Specialist. “There is a misconception that using a combination parasite treatment as part of a strategic deworming program costs more time and money. The facts show producers can save time, money and improve herd performance by deworming at the right time with the right product.”

In one study, the combination of fenbendazole oral dewormer and ivermectin pour-on improved profits by $20 per head when compared to using the pour-on only. In addition to the profitability noted from the reduced parasite burden, cattle strategically dewormed reduced fecal worm egg shedding 98 days post-treatment as well as at harvest, which kept pastures cleaner and lowered the chance of reinfection.

Another study compared cattle treated with the same combination products with those treated with a injectable alone. The cattle treated with the combination of products generated net returns of $9.31 per head on a live basis and $5.83 per head on a carcass basis.

Reinhardt said the study showed the combination of deworming treatments helped animals shed parasite loads as quickly and completely as possible, which resulted in improved gains, feed efficiency, carcass quality, general health and profitability.

Timing and a combination treatment are critical components of strategic deworming, says Reinhardt. Generally, a pour-on treatment is used to treat cattle at turnout. Follow-up treatment using a Safe-Guard oral drench or feed-in is administered six weeks after turnout to rid cattle of internal parasites. ©