 | Dr. William Morland graduated from Kansas State University in 1970 with a doctorate in veterinary medicine. He and his wife, Dr. Laura Morland, founded the hospital in 1974. Dr. Morland is a large-animal practitioner. He also owns the Flying M Ranch. He enjoys working with his own cattle and back grounding calves. His pets other than his cattle include two Cairn terrier named Bandit and Dandy. |
Veterinary
2012-01-26 15:26:49
Winter cattle care
A: The answer is yes. Winter is the prime time of year when lice infestations peak on cattle due to several factors. Lice are small wingless insects that feed on the blood and skin tissues of cattle. They are spread in the herd through direct animal-to-animal contact. Decreased sunlight and low levels of Vitamin A and the normal crowding of herds, all common in the winter months, will influence the spread of lice. Symptoms of lice infestations or pediculosis are: loss of hair, excessive rubbing against the fence or buildings, biting of infested areas of the skin, rough and patchy coat and general unthrifty appearance. There are four different species of lice commonly found on cattle in the U.S. and all four may be present at the same time. The general areas to examine are the neck, back, hips and tailhead.
Cattle lice can reduce weight gain and lead to poor reproductive performance as well as damage to property such as fences, hay racks and buildings.
Fortunately, there are many broad-spectrum insecticides that will treat lice infestations as well as other parasites. However, since lice infestations usually build up later in the season, fall treatments may not be enough to satisfactorily control cattle lice. Pour on treatments are favored for lice control but insecticide dust bags and oilers can also be effective.
See your veterinarian for the most recommended treatments for your herd.
