Lice in cattle: Stop it before it starts

Lice infestations can wreak havoc on cattle farms, causing discomfort, decreased productivity, and economic losses if left unchecked. Recognising the signs of infestation and implementing effective treatment strategies are vital for maintaining herd health and welfare.

In this episode, Dr Stefan Steyn, technical and regulatory veterinarian at Afrivet, guides farmers in choosing the right treatment plan for their herds.

“In terms of lice overall, it’s not something that’s difficult to understand. It’s an external parasite. What you commonly see is irritability in cattle, especially being annoyed, scratching the whole time and that’s just because of the physical irritation that’s going on the skin,” Steyn emphasises.

He elaborates on two distinct kinds of lice that affect separate regions of the body. He also talks about their brief life cycle causes and shares detailed information about recognising the species of lice and examining the affected areas in order to diagnose an infestation.

“Untreated lice infestations not only lead to discomfort but also hinder cattle health, productivity, and welfare. Lice infestations can exacerbate existing health issues and contribute to the spread of diseases like gall sickness or anaplasmosis.”

Preventative measures

Did you know that lice Infestations can be avoided by treating livestock proactively? That’s right. To disrupt the lice life cycle and prevent reinfection, it is important to keep the herd in ideal health, reduce stress, and follow treatment schedules

Steyn advises that swift treatment is crucial in severe cases or outbreaks to alleviate physical irritation and prevent further harm. “Consulting veterinarians for guidance on treatment protocols and supporting animals with nutritional supplements aid in recovery and overall herd resilience.”