Internal parasites continue to pose a threat to beef cattle production, affecting animal health, productivity, and economic viability. Anthelmintic (dewormer) resistance is a growing concern, and given the expense of dewormers, producers and veterinarians need to be sure they are working. Recent Oklahoma State University (OSU) research has shed light on the seeming need to mitigate the challenge of internal parasite resistance in beef cattle.
Drs. John Gilliam, Jared Taylor, and Ruth Scimeca of the OSU College of Veterinary Medicine recently published research in The Bovine Practitioner that provided evidence of apparent internal parasite resistance in Oklahoma cow-calf herds. In this small study, thirteen of 16 (81%) participating herds had evidence of apparent anthelmintic resistance based on fecal egg count reduction testing (FECRT). Herds were included from around the state and represented a variety of grazing types and anthelmintic products.
OSU research is ongoing with an expanded opportunity for Oklahoma cattlemen and veterinarians in 2024. Researchers from the Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Department of Animal and Food Sciences, and Extension are currently conducting a larger study of Oklahoma herds. The study hopes to collect data from at least 50 different groups of cattle from around the state. Samples can be collected from now through fall 2024.
The study is seeking a minimum of 20 (preferably 30) animals that are within the same stage of production. For example, classes of cattle enrolled in the study could be mature cows of approximately the same age, weaned calves, purchased growing and weaned steers or stocker heifers, or replacement heifers. Good animal handling facilities are required where cattle can be restrained for safe fecal collection.
Multiple classes of cattle from the same operation can be included in the research project if different anthelmintic products are used. Animals must not have been treated with an anthelmintic product within 60 days of initial sampling. Although all operations are encouraged to apply, preference to participate will be given to operations with young animals between the ages of weaning and yearling. More information is needed on these age groups of cattle.
Fecal samples will be collected from these 20 to 30 animals through rectal palpation. The first collection must occur at initial processing/deworming or within seven days prior to that initial processing/deworming. The second collection must occur 10-17 days post-deworming.
Samples will be stored and labeled in sealed plastic sample bags. Sampling supplies will be provided at no cost to the producer. The same animals must be sampled on both collection dates.
OSU research personnel will coordinate with the participant and extension personnel will make every effort to be present at sampling time. Samples will be shipped to the laboratory as soon as possible and a summary of the results along with veterinary interpretation will be provided. There is no cost to the producer for laboratory testing or interpretation.
If you are interested in participating in this project, please fill out the interest form at https://okstatecasnr.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cAtiVIHwoLyow50 or scan the QR code below. Once the interest form is received, someone from the research team will be in contact to coordinate delivery of the sampling kits and other details. Questions on the project may be directed to rosslyn.biggs@okstate.edu or david.lalman@okstate.edu .
Producers and veterinarians need to be proactive in developing management strategies to preserve the effectiveness of dewormers while maintaining production. Producers and veterinarians should consider working with laboratory partners, like the Oklahoma Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory, to implement FECRT either individually or by composite testing.
