top of page

Why Long-Acting Worm Control Matters for Cattle Health

  • Writer: ACT Ltd.
    ACT Ltd.
  • 5 days ago
  • 2 min read
Cattle grazing in pasture as part of a long-acting worm control programme

Effective parasite control plays a vital role in maintaining cattle health, performance and productivity. Internal and external parasites can have a significant impact on weight gain, feed efficiency and overall herd wellbeing - often without obvious clinical signs. For many farms, long-acting worm control solutions form a key part of a strategic parasite management programme.


The Hidden Cost of Parasites in Cattle


Parasites such as gastrointestinal roundworms, lungworm, lice and mange mites can reduce growth rates and compromise immune function. In grazing cattle, parasite challenges often peak during the grazing season, making timely and effective control essential.


Left unmanaged, parasite burdens can lead to:


  • Reduced daily liveweight gain

  • Poor feed conversion

  • Increased susceptibility to disease

  • Greater stress on cattle


This is why many producers are moving away from frequent dosing schedules and towards longer-acting treatments.


The Benefits of Long-Acting Worm Control


Long-acting wormers provide extended protection from a single treatment, helping to reduce the need for repeat handling and dosing. This can be particularly beneficial during busy periods on farm.


Key advantages include:

  • Extended parasite control during high-risk periods

  • Reduced handling and labour requirements

  • More consistent protection across the herd

  • Support for performance and productivity


When used correctly and as part of an integrated parasite control plan, long-acting treatments can help simplify worming programmes without compromising effectiveness.


Real-World Experience From the Farm


Many farmers have seen the benefits of incorporating long-acting worm control into their herd health plans, particularly where parasite pressure is high or labour availability is limited.



Hearing directly from producers can provide valuable insight into how long-acting parasite control performs in real-world grazing systems.


Choosing the Right Worming Strategy


Every farm is different, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to parasite control. Factors such as grazing management, stocking density, age of cattle and previous parasite history should all be considered when selecting a treatment programme.


Working closely with your vet or animal health advisor can help ensure:


  • The right product is chosen

  • Correct dosing rates are applied

  • Resistance risks are managed

  • Withdrawal periods are observed


Supporting Cattle Health Through Strategic Parasite Control


Long-acting worm control solutions can be a valuable tool in supporting cattle health when used responsibly. Combined with good grazing management and professional advice, they help protect cattle during key stages of the production cycle.

If you’d like advice on selecting a suitable long-acting wormer or building a parasite control plan for your herd, our team is always on hand to help.


Call our Animal Health team for advice on 01425 474455

Comments


bottom of page