Annual Program for Cattle

The annual program describes the program of treatments and interventions for each Australian climatic and geographical region (Figure 1). The recommendations for each region are generic and therefore need to be customised to the needs of individual producers and delivered by those with knowledge in the field.

The programs have been updated from the MLA cattle parasite atlas and are a compilation of available information that represents the current best practice based on 45 years of investigation, research and application by veterinarians, advisors and producers.

See the regions on the map below to find the recommended annual program for parasite management. To manage parasites of cattle housed in feedlots, follow the feedlot plan.

While you may be researching or planning a program for a specific parasite that is a problem for your property, it pays to be aware of what other parasite risks may be approaching and make an integrated plan.

The recommendations in each program are generic and therefore need to be customised to the needs of individual producers and delivered by those with knowledge in the field.

Be aware that chemical resistance can develop in both targeted and non-targeted parasites.

Use of chemicals to control one type of parasite can also unintentionally select for resistance in a different group of parasites. It is important to read the label to determine which parasites will be controlled. Resistance is a significant issue in ticks, buffalo flies and cattle worms. When choosing a chemical to control one of these parasites, consider the possible side effects of increasing selection for resistance to the others.

Strategies for delaying the emergence of chemical resistance include:

• Where possible include non-chemical control strategies to reduce reliance on chemical treatments.
• Avoid frequent use of the same chemical or chemicals within the same chemical group.
• Don’t under-dose products as this allows the more tolerant pests in a population to survive. Common causes of under-dosing include under-estimating the weight of animals being treated, poor application technique, and mis-calibrated application equipment.
• Use chemicals according to the product label.