Treatment of North Dakota beef cows and calves with ivermectin

Some economic considerations

Authors

  • Kurt Wohlgemuth Extension Veterinarian, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58105
  • John J. Melancon Manager, Technical Services, MSD-AGVET, Maple Grove, MN 55369
  • Harlan Hughes Extension Livestock Economist, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58105
  • Mario Biondini Animal & Range Science Department, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58105

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21423/bovine-vol0no24p61-66

Keywords:

Anthelmintics, cost benefit analysis, DRUG THERAPY, economics, helminths, ivermectin, Livestock, parasites, helminthoses, parasitoses, animal parasitic nematodes, nematode infections

Abstract

A 2-year field study was carried out in North Dakota, USA to determine if there was an economic benefit from treating cows and/or their calves with ivermectin (Ivomec) at 200 µg/kg sc. Three herds were used; each herd was divided into 4 similar groups: group I - cows and their calves treated with ivermectin (cows in the autumn and calves in late June); group II - only cows treated each autumn; group III - only calves treated in late June; group IV - neither cows nor their calves treated. A total of 953 calves were weaned over the 2-year period. Calves were individually weighed at weaning and the actual market value (based on local market conditions) of each calf was calculated. Calves in groups I and II averaged at least 20 lb more than calves in group IV at weaning; this difference was significant. Calves from cows treated with ivermectin returned a significant economic benefit over controls.

Cover image of the 24th Volume of the Bovine Practitioner: a photo of the Kansas city skyline from the perspective of the Scout--a statue of a Sioux Indian on horseback surveying the landscape

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Published

1989-11-01

How to Cite

Wohlgemuth, K., Melancon, J. J., Hughes, H., & Biondini, M. (1989). Treatment of North Dakota beef cows and calves with ivermectin: Some economic considerations. The Bovine Practitioner, (24), 61–66. https://doi.org/10.21423/bovine-vol0no24p61-66

Issue

No. 24 (1989 November)

Section

Articles