Farming News - Protect Stock from Flies Now as Warm, Wet Weather Sees Peak in Numbers

Protect Stock from Flies Now as Warm, Wet Weather Sees Peak in Numbers

Farmers are warned to be on their guard and protect their livestock against flies, as warm and wet weather accelerates maggot and fly development.  

Studies in cattle have shown that fly worry can cause growth rate losses of up to 0.3kg a day and 0.5l a day milk loss1, mainly due to the 'hassle factor' leading to reduced feed intake. 

"Not only do flies cause a significant financial loss, they are also a welfare concern," explained Zoetis National Veterinary Manager Patricia van Veen 

"Cattle and sheep can become irritated by flies and spend less time resting or eating, impacting DLWG and production. In sheep, flies can also cause devastating issues, such as blowfly strike, which can occur rapidly, often taking sheep farmers by surprise. If an infestation is missed, it can cause suffering and even death," she said.  

Farmers can easily protect their stock from flies, with the best results seen when fly control starts before populations really get going.  

Control options  

Synthetic pyrethroid spot-on products are among the most commonly used. These work by disrupting the fly's nervous system, ultimately killing them. Each product has different active ingredients, control periods and withdrawal times. It's important cattle and sheep producers discuss insect control options with their vet or qualified animal health adviser to find the product most suited to their herd/flock.  

Examples include Fly & Lice Spot On® and DYSECT®. These can give up to 8 weeks of protection in cattle, with a zero-day milk withdrawal. In sheep, DYSECT can protect against Blowfly for 8-10 weeks and head flies for six weeks, with a 49-day meat withdrawal. Regular application is needed for season-long control.  

Ms van Veen added: "A good fly control strategy is an important part of preventative healthcare for all livestock. Not only does it have the potential for improving productivity in your herd or flock, but it also prevents diseases such as New Forest Eye, summer mastitis and blowfly strike, which can be costly and have devastating consequences."  

References 

  1. Jonsson et al (1999). Med. Vet. Entomology 13, p372-376 

DYSECT CATTLE POUR-ON SOLUTION 15 G/LITRE contains alphacypermethrin. POM-VPS. DYSECT SHEEP POUR-ON 12.5 G/L POUR-ON SOLUTION contains alphacypermethrin. POM-VPS. FLY & LICE SPOT ON contains deltamethrin. POM-VPS For further information please see the product's SPC or contact your medicine supplier or Zoetis UK Limited.

About Zoetis 

As the world's leading animal health company, Zoetis is driven by a singular purpose: to nurture our world and humankind by advancing care for animals. After nearly 70 years innovating ways to predict, prevent, detect, and treat animal illness, Zoetis continues to stand by those raising and caring for animals worldwide - from livestock farmers to veterinarians and pet owners. The company's leading portfolio and pipeline of medicines, vaccines, diagnostics, and technologies make a difference in over 100 countries. In 2020, Zoetis generated revenue of $6.7 billion with ~11,300 employees. For more information, visit www.zoetis.com" www.zoetis.com