The effects of the drought of 2012 have generated both financial and animal health challenges for the cattle industry. As drought continues in many areas across the country this winter and spring, cattle producers need to manage the health of their animals at a higher level, including the impact of internal parasites.

The parasite Cooperia has become the most prevalent internal parasite in U.S. cattle operations, according to research data from USDA’s National Animal Health Monitoring Service (NAHMS) Beef 2007 to 2008 cow-calf survey.

Internal parasites can affect every segment of dairy production when animals have been grazing even for short periods of time. Parasite infections have a costly effect on cattle health and performance including reproductive losses, hampered immune responses, reduced appetite and lower weight gain.

Internal parasites affect every segment of cattle production