Ticks
- Cattle ticks are not a problem in feedlots.
- In intensive feedlots engorged ticks drop from cattle and are crushed under foot.
- Any eggs and larvae that survive will perish in the feedlot environment as it is too dry, and there is no grass.
Worms
- A feedlot induction drench for internal parasite control is advised for cattle under 2 years old and if droughted, weak stock.
- Treatment for fluke is also recommended if animals have come from fluke areas.
- Without an induction drench, the parasites inside wormy cattle will continue to thrive unchecked, causing diminished performance and reductions in health throughout the feeding period.
- No scheduled calendar treatments are necessary for worm control as the feedlot environment is unsuitable for re-infection.
Flies
Buffalo flies House flies Stable flies
- Buffalo flies are normally not a problem in cattle feedlots.
- House flies and stable flies can be a problem in spring and autumn, or following rain.
- Fly numbers should not be managed on a scheduled calendar basis. They are best managed using cleaning and biological methods, and only with chemical treatments if predetermined population threshold levels have been exceeded (see treating surrounds).
Lice
- Lice and mite infestations can spread quickly in feedlots due to the close proximity of animals.
- A feedlot induction treatment that provides lice and mite control is good practice.
- Cattle that are under stress from poor nutrition or disease and older animals tend to be more susceptible to lice.
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