Annual Program for Cattle in South-western WA

Ticks

 Cattle tick is not a problem in this region

• Any cattle tick infestations found in the tick free area are notifiable.
• Check the WA Department of Agriculture and Food reportable animal diseases website for their latest management requirements.

Problem ticks

• Bush tick rise in spring or with wet season, adults most numerous in spring and summer. Routine control measures for bush tick are generally not warranted.

Flies

 Buffalo flies  Stable flies

• Climate largely unsuitable for buffalo fly.
• Stable flies have become a significant problem in some areas of the Swan valley and cattle may require protective treatments.

Lice

Seasonal trends

Louse numbers increase

 early winter   early spring

Optimal timing of treatment if needed (usually not required)

 early winter

Lice numbers increase from early winter through to early spring and then decline with increasing temperatures in spring and summer. Heavy infestations are usually seen in cattle in poor body condition. In most cases the lice are a consequence, and not the cause, of poor nutritional conditions. Where lice are an on-going problem a single treatment in early winter will usually provide effective control.

Worms

Highest WECs

 Autumn

Significant worms

 Small brown stomach worm (Ostertagia ostertagi)

 Barber’s pole worm (Haemonchus placei)

 Small intestinal worms (Cooperia species)

Other worms

 Nodule worm (Oesophagostomum radiatum)

 Stomach hair worm (Trichostrongylus axei)

Calendar for worm and fluke control

Table 1. Calendar for worm and fluke control.