How to treat calves for lice? - briefly
Apply a licensed topical insecticide, such as a pyrethrin‑based spray, according to label directions and repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to interrupt the lice life cycle. Clean the pens thoroughly and treat all animals in the herd at the same time to prevent reinfestation.
How to treat calves for lice? - in detail
Effective control of lice infestations in young cattle involves several coordinated actions. Identification of the species, selection of an appropriate acaricide, and implementation of management practices are essential components.
Initial assessment should include a thorough visual inspection of the animal’s coat, focusing on the neck, ears, and ventral regions where lice congregate. Confirmation of infestation can be achieved by collecting a few specimens and examining them under magnification.
Selection of a chemical treatment requires consideration of product registration, withdrawal periods, and resistance history. Commonly used options include:
- Topical pour‑on formulations containing organophosphates or pyrethroids, applied along the dorsal midline and spread evenly over the entire body.
- Injectable macrocyclic lactones, administered subcutaneously at the dose recommended for ectoparasite control.
- Oral systemic agents, provided the product label permits use in calves of the specific age and weight.
Application guidelines must be followed precisely: ensure the animal’s skin is clean, apply the full dose, and prevent licking or rubbing for at least 24 hours. Re‑treatment is typically recommended after 7–10 days to interrupt the life cycle, which lasts approximately 14–21 days.
Non‑chemical measures support long‑term reduction of lice populations:
- Regular grooming with a fine‑toothed comb to remove adult insects and eggs.
- Maintenance of dry, clean bedding to discourage egg survival.
- Strategic pasture rotation to lower environmental contamination.
- Quarantine and treatment of newly introduced calves before mixing with the herd.
Monitoring after treatment involves weekly inspections for at least three weeks. Absence of live lice and a decline in skin irritation indicate successful control. Persistent or recurrent infestations may require a switch to a different class of acaricide and a review of environmental hygiene practices.