Eco-Friendly Parasite Control for Cattle

By Scout Nelson

Healthy parasite control is important for both livestock and the environment. Farmers are encouraged to use dewormers only when needed and develop a parasite management plan that protects cattle while reducing impacts on soil, water, and beneficial insects.

Angela Varnum, DVM, MPH, Extension livestock veterinarian along with Sabrina Florentino, Extension educator, alternative livestock systems, and Claire LaCanne, Extension educator, crops, explained that responsible parasite control starts with a clear management plan.

They encourage producers to work with their veterinarian, use fecal egg counts to identify animals that need treatment, and avoid unnecessary use of dewormers.

Parasite control products help manage internal worms, flies, and other pests, but some products can also affect the environment.

Certain dewormers enter the environment through manure and may harm dung beetles, earthworms, and other insects that naturally break down manure and improve soil health.

Dung beetles and soil organisms help recycle nutrients and improve soil quality. When these insects are affected, manure breaks down more slowly, reducing nutrient movement into the soil.

Some dewormers may also reduce helpful soil microorganisms that support healthy crop growth. Farmers are encouraged to choose products carefully by reviewing the active ingredients.

Oral dewormers, such as fenbendazole, oxfendazole, and albendazole, generally have a lower impact on dung beetles and are good choices during active beetle seasons.

Endectocides, including ivermectin, eprinomectin, doramectin, abamectin, moxidectin, and LongRange, control both internal and external parasites but can remain in manure for weeks or months.

For fly control, experts recommend applying insecticides directly through ear tags, sprays, dusts, or backrubbers instead of feed-through products whenever possible. This approach helps reduce risks to aquatic species and pollinators.

Products containing permethrins, cypermethrins, organophosphates, carbamates, and insect growth regulators should also be selected carefully because their environmental effects vary depending on the active ingredient, application method, season, and frequency of use.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-r-j-seymour