By Andi Anderson
Lice infestations are a common issue for livestock owners, particularly during colder months when animals grow thicker coats and spend more time in close contact.
Proper management practices are essential to prevent discomfort, reduce stress, and maintain cattle health and productivity.
There are five species of cattle lice found in North America. Four of these species feed on blood: the shortnosed cattle louse, longnosed cattle louse, little blue cattle louse, and the cattle tail louse.
The fifth species, the cattle biting louse, feeds on skin tissue rather than blood. Adult lice live on the animal’s skin surface beneath the hair coat, where they reproduce and thrive.
Lice infestations can cause itching, hair loss, and reduced weight gain due to stress and irritation. In severe cases, they can lead to anemia and secondary infections. Livestock owners are encouraged to include lice management as part of their regular herd health program.
Preventive management starts with close observation. Regularly inspect cattle, especially during fall and winter, when lice populations tend to increase. When infestations are detected, treatment should be applied to the entire herd, not just visibly affected animals. This helps break the life cycle of lice and prevents re-infestation.
Treatment options include pour-on insecticides, sprays, and systemic products that kill both biting and sucking lice. However, producers must carefully follow label directions and avoid overuse to prevent resistance development.
It is also important to retreat animals within two to three weeks after the initial application to target newly hatched lice.
In addition to chemical control, maintaining good hygiene and nutrition helps boost the animal’s natural resistance to parasites. Cleaning pens, reducing crowding, and minimizing contact between infested and non-infested animals are also vital steps.
Proper lice management not only supports animal well-being but also enhances farm productivity. A proactive approach combining observation, treatment, and prevention will help cattle owners maintain healthy, stress-free herds throughout the year.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-ahavelaar
Categories: Michigan, General, Livestock