Controlling worms with Eclipse® saw weaners gain on average 5.1 kg more than those treated with a single active ML drench

Young cattle have limited immunity to diseases and parasites, and although they are generally put on clean pasture, they can still be challenged by worms picked up before weaning. Worm challenge can have a significant effect on liveweight gain, with most production losses occurring within six months of weaning. Studies have shown that worms not only reduce liveweight gain, but also cause poor utilisation of high quality pastures. Calves with worms have been shown to:

• Consume 0.78 kg less dry matter per day
• Graze 105 minutes less per day
• Gain 18.7% less weight per day¹.

In a recent study², weaners treated with Eclipse® Combination Pour-On gained on average 5.1 kg more than those treated with a single active ML over a period of 90 days. In this study the average efficacy of Eclipse® across all farms was 99.7%, while the single active ML was only 84%. Further research³ showed a weight difference of up to 13 kg over a 12 month period when cattle were treated with an effective combination drench compared to a single active drench.

What does 5.1 kg extra mean for your operation?

Weaner output represents the most significant productivity measure for successful cow-calf operations and the main driver for margins on farm⁴. When young cattle receive the right nutrition and animal health management, the time it takes to reach target weight can be significantly reduced, putting downward pressure on cost of production. The use of Eclipse as a weaning drench reduces worm challenge at an important time in weaner development, and can have young cattle in great condition for sale and reach target weight sooner than drenching with a single ML².

To maximise weaner potential, Boehringer Ingelheim Cattle Specialist, Dr. Andres Ardila suggests producers consider the following when growing young cattle.

Treat cattle with an effective drench

In order to remove worm infections in young cattle it is important to use an effective broad spectrum treatment. A recent study⁵ where 75% of cattle farms were diagnosed with drench resistance, illustrated that single active drenches may not be the most suitable treatment for worms in young cattle. Eclipse® is effective against ML resistant varieties of worms, making it the smart option for young cattle. Dr Ardila stresses the importance of understanding your market. “When using Eclipse®, consider target markets and turn-off periods, as Eclipse® is not suitable for cattle to be slaughtered within 56 days of treatment for the domestic market, or 70 days for export. For these cattle, Eprinex® provides a convenient alternative with zero meat withholding and zero export slaughter interval”.

Consider earlier weaning

According to Dr Ardila, “early weaning not only enables the cow to recover and get back to a breeding weight for the next cycle, but it also enables greater feed utilisation by the calf”. High quality pastures can be better utilised when fed directly to the calf rather than through milk, due to a greater level of feed conversion. To maximise growth, weaning should be scheduled to match pasture height, quality and availability to promote maximum intake. Early weaning also maximises the appropriate allocation of feed resources to assist with optimal reproductive performance of breeders⁶.

Prepare clean pastures for weaners

In managing worms on pasture, Dr Ardila says “cleaner pastures can be prepared by grazing paddocks with sheep or cattle older than 18 months of age for a period of six months”. Studies have shown a reduction in the number of worms on pasture and in calves for up to 12 months of age following this procedure⁷. Rotational grazing using cattle and sheep at two to six month intervals in combination with strategic drenching have been successful in reducing worms in both animals, given that several parasites only affect one or the other⁸.

Visit your local Landmark store today and talk to one of our animal health advisors about how Eclipse® can add value to your cattle business.

References: 1. Forbes, A.B., et al., Evaluation of the effects of nematode parasitism on grazing behaviour, herbage intake and growth in young grazing cattle. Veterinary Parasitology, 2000. 90: p. 111-118. 2. Information based on trial results from research conducted in partnership with Charles Sturt University. Data on file. 3. Candy, P.M., et al., The effect on liveweight gain of using anthelmintics with incomplete efficacy against resistant Cooperia oncophora in cattle. Veterinary Parasitology, 2018. 251: p. 56-62. 4. Meat and Livestock Australia. Could your Herd be More Productive? An introduction to understanding your herd’s productivity and possible causes of poor performance. 2016 [cited 2019 15/03/2019]; Available from: https://futurebeef.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/7-could-your-herd-be-more-productive.pdf. 5. Wonders, N., What does anthelmintic resistance mean for worm treatment in cattle?, in AVA Cattle Conference. 2016: Alice Springs. 6. Meat and Livestock Australia. More beef from pastures. 2013  [cited 2019 4/03/2019]; Available from: https://www.mla.com.au/extension-training-and-tools/more-beef-from-pastures/. 7. Barger, I.A. and W.H. Southcott, Control of nematode parasites by grazing management—I. Decontamination of cattle pastures by grazing with sheep. International Journal for Parasitology, 1975. 5(1): p. 39-44. 8. Waller, P.J., Sustainable nematode parasite control strategies for ruminant livestock by grazing management and biological control. Animal Feed Science and Technology, 2006. 126(3): p. 277-289.

*See product label for full claim details and directions for use. Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health Australia Pty. Ltd., Level 1, 78 Waterloo Road, North Ryde, NSW 2113 Australia. ABN 53 071 187

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