The Economics of Parasite Control for Beef Cattle

Abstract

This paper will examine the economic feasibility of controlling gastrointestinal nematodes of cattle in North America, but the coverage will not be limited to monetary inputs and outcomes. A preliminary section will review the biology of target parasites and host responses, register concerns about the economic viability of current recommendations, and discuss realistic expectations for deworming programs. A discussion of the parasitologic characteristics of individual classes of beef cattle will follow, recommendations for optimal parasite control of each class will be offered, and the requirements for cost-benefit estimated.