How to Formulate a Successful Fall Deworming Plan

How to Formulate a Successful Fall Deworming Plan

By M. Wayne Ayers, DVM, Beef Cattle Technical Consultant, Elanco Animal Health

A fall deworming program that reduces unseen nutrient-robbing parasite load can increase cattle health and improve growth and productivity.

Parasites can have visual impact, but more often the impact is hidden in decreased performance and efficiency. A well-designed treatment program can result in the capture of many more dollars at the end of the day.

Understanding the risk

There are at least 15 internal parasites that affect cattle in the U.S., with five typically blamed for the most serious economic losses.

The parasite that causes the most economic loss, and if left unchecked can cause permanent reduction in performance, is the brown stomach worm (Ostertagia). Untreated calves that experience a heavy Ostertagia load in early life may be less efficient because of damage done to the lining of the abomasum. Reduced growth rates and increased incidences of disease, such as respiratory disease, are also potential issues.

How to time parasite management

Internal parasites behave differently depending on geographic location and environmental conditions; therefore, treatment timing can vary by location and even pasture to pasture.

Treatment timing should be dictated by the life cycle of the parasite and producers are encouraged to work with their local veterinarian to help assess the most effective time to treat parasites in their regions, which parasites are of greatest concern for their herds and which product or combination of products are recommended.

There is no one gold standard for treating parasites, therefore treatment protocols must be dictated by risk and the opportunity to handle cattle. Begin with the ideal treatment plan for your specific location and parasite risk, then adapt that ideal to the operation’s management style and restrictions.

Cattle grazing in actively growing green grass consume and ingest parasite larvae causing active infection and production losses. Spring-born calves, having picked up internal parasites throughout the summer months, will likely come into the fall with heavy loads, making pre-weaning deworming programs especially critical. 

A dewormer such as Cydectin, which is highly effective against inhibited and resistant parasite populations including Ostertagia can eliminate those worms and return calves back to a state of increased growth and weight gains.

Choosing a treatment plan

Choosing a parasite control product(s) depends on local risk, handling opportunity and other pests affecting cattle. This may mean choosing between a pour-on or injectable product.

If deworming cattle in late summer or early fall when fly pressure is still heavy, a pour-on product might provide the highest return on investment. When temperatures are cold and flies are not a concern, an injectable product would have the highest return, especially when treating lice with a pour-on product.

A toolbox of options

Elanco’s extensive portfolio of insecticides and parasiticides, which can control various parasites like flies, ticks, lice, mites and internal worms, includes Cydectin.

Cydectin, a pioneer macrocyclic lactone in the milbemycin subclass is effective against both internal and external parasites, and is available in different formulations for various applications, including pour-on, injectable and oral for sheep. By reducing parasite loads, cattle are expected to have an increase appetite utilizing nutrients more efficiently with increased growth rates and reduced disease incidence.

M. Wayne Ayers, DVM, Beef Cattle Technical Consultant, Elanco Animal Health

Moxidectin, the active ingredient powering Cydectin, is the latest molecule available in the macrocyclic lactone class and in the milbemycin subclass allowing it to be more effective against and less resistant to cattle parasites than its predecessors in the avermectin class.

If one has been using any of the avermectin products repeatedly or in rotation with each other, it is possible that resistance has been building and it may be time to reach for something unique, such as Cydectin.

Visit CydectinBeef.com or talk to your veterinarian or local Elanco representative about how Cydectin can benefit your strategic fall deworming protocol.

Keep Cydectin out of reach of children.

Cydectin, Elanco and the diagonal bar logo are trademarks of Elanco or its affiliates. Other product names are trademarks of their respective owners. ©2024 Elanco or its affiliates. PM-US-24-1523

 

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Scott Angus Cattle: A Family Tradition

Scott Angus Cattle: A Family Tradition

By Jessica Graham

This past summer, as the Publisher of “The American Cattlemen” magazine, I was able to embark on a trip across several different states. I was blessed to be able to meet some of the leaders in the cattle industry, leaders in genetics, innovations, and influence in agriculture. One of my stops included Scott Angus Cattle.

Located in Belgrade, Nebraska, Scott Angus Cattle is a family-owned operation with a rich history dating back to the 1930s. Founded by Leonard Scott, father Ronald Scott, the ranch has been dedicated to raising high-quality cattle for over eight decades.

The ranch has faced numerous challenges, including the devastating floods of 2019, which caused significant damage to their infrastructure and separated them from their cattle. However, these experiences have only strengthened their bond with the land and their commitment to raising quality cattle.

This operation is still owned and operated by the family, and one additional employee. Today, the third generation of the Scott family continues the tradition of excellence. Marlin and Kelly Scott, along with their children, Abby and A.J. Ropers, and Sam and Stephanie Scott, work together to manage the ranch. Their dedication to their craft is evident in the well-maintained pastures and healthy cattle.

One of the ranch’s notable achievements is the acquisition of donor Sitz Pride 200B, mother of Stellar, from Sitz Angus. This valuable addition has contributed to the success of their breeding program. The family also employs a dedicated ranch hand, Robb Engel, who plays a vital role in the daily operations

Scott Angus Cattle is known for its high-quality cattle, which are raised in a friendly and approachable environment. The ranch’s commitment to ethical and sustainable practices is evident in their well-organized calving barn and their focus on feeding their cattle a nutritious diet.

The ranch has a long history of producing exceptional Angus cattle. Their success is a testament to their dedication to genetic improvement and sound management practices. There are a few different ways you can benefit from their genetics. They host “The Belles of the Grade Select Female Sale”, October 23, 2024.

They also host a spring production sale plus a private treaty listing, or you can purchase embryos directly from the ranch.

The Scott family is proud of their accomplishments and the progress they have made in growing their business. Their dedication to their land, their cattle, and their family is a testament to their enduring spirit and their unwavering commitment to excellence.

The Power of Producer Profiles with The American Cattlemen Podcast

The Power of Producer Profiles with The American Cattlemen Podcast

By Jessica Graham

In today’s fast-paced world, podcasts have emerged as one of the most effective ways to learn and share information almost instantly. Within the cattle industry, podcasts offer a unique platform for sharing knowledge, promoting livestock, and fostering community. One of the most significant advantages of podcasts is their accessibility. Unlike traditional media, podcasts can be listened to on-demand, at the listener’s convenience. This flexibility allows cattle producers and industry professionals to consume information at their own pace, whether they are driving, working, or relaxing.

Find the Right Genetics
Fall is a prime season for cattle sales, with a wide variety of offerings, including fall-bred heifers, bulls, and select cows. Many producers capitalize on this opportunity to add to their genetics. However, the abundance of choices can make it overwhelming to research and select the right genetics, especially when considering the limited window of sales.

To address this challenge, we’ve developed the “Producer Profile” podcasts on our American Cattlemen podcast platform. These podcasts give us a sneak peak into the diverse range of cattle producers and their operations.

By listening to these profiles, you can gain a deeper understanding of different breeding philosophies, herd management practices, and the specific genetics being offered.

By listening to a few episodes of your choosing, you can make an informed decisions about your cattle purchases. Instead of relying solely on written descriptions or limited online resources, “Producer Profile” podcasts offer a more comprehensive and personal perspective. You can hear directly from the producers themselves about their cattle’s strengths, weaknesses, and suitability for various production systems.

In addition to helping you identify potential genetics, these podcasts can also introduce you to new and emerging producers. By building relationships with producers in the industry, you can expand your network and stay informed about upcoming sales and opportunities.

Effectively Market Your Cattle
Producer Profile podcasts offer a cost-effective and efficient way to reach a vast audience. Unlike traditional advertising channels, this allows producers to share their message with a global audience at a fraction of the cost.

We’ve seen the benefits from small family farms to big ranches. By leveraging the power of podcasts, cattle producers can effectively market their livestock to a wider audience. Instead of relying solely on one-on-one interactions with potential buyers, they can reach an infinite number of people through a single podcast episode. This is particularly advantageous for producers who have a premium product to offer, as podcasts provide a platform to showcase the unique qualities and benefits of their livestock.

As cattlemen, we care about the cattle, the quality, and have pride in our hard work. However, when it comes to marketing, that is a whole different obstacle. You may have some of the best genetics, or best services, but are unable to grow because well, other cattlemen haven’t heard your story. So tell it! Instantly share with the world a little about yourself, your cattle, and the premium services you have.

Podcasts have become an indispensable tool for sharing information and promoting livestock within the cattle industry. Their accessibility, personal connection, and cost-effectiveness make them a valuable asset for producers seeking to reach a wider audience and market their premium products. By embracing the power of podcasts, cattle producers can stay ahead of the curve and position themselves for success in today’s competitive market.

So, as you navigate the bustling fall cattle market, remember the value of the “Producer Profile” podcasts. By listening to these informative resources, you can make more confident and strategic decisions about your cattle purchases and ensure the long-term success of your operation.

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