Endoparasitosis in cattle is a global problem and, in addition to animal welfare issues, also leads to significant economic losses in milk and meat production.
Besides clinical symptoms such as emaciation, anemia, diarrhea, recumbency, and death, endoparasites can cause performance losses due to subclinical or chronic infections, manifesting as weight loss, poor weight gain, reduced milk production, fertility problems, or reduced carcass quality. Furthermore, the increasing resistance to anthelmintics (substances used to control parasites) poses a major problem in veterinary medicine, threatening both animal health and agricultural income. Since studies in Austria have also shown reduced efficacy of anthelmintics in ruminants, it is crucial that the endoparasite status is known and regularly monitored to ensure targeted use of anthelmintics.
As part of a research project by HBLFA Raumberg-Gumpenstein, a comprehensive prevalence study on endoparasites in dairy cows in Flachgau (Salzburg) was carried out in cooperation with the Clinical Centre for Ruminant and Camelid Medicine.
The aim of the study was to record the infestation with gastrointestinal strongyles (GDS), lungworms ( Dictyocaulus viviparus ) and the large liver fluke ( Fasciola hepatica ) in dairy cows and to analyze possible correlations with clinical symptoms as well as husbandry and feeding factors.
Key findings of the prevalence study on endoparasites in dairy cows
- A total of 260 dairy cows from 26 farms were examined.
- The prevalence for gastrointestinal strongyles was 23.8%.
- Fasciola hepatica was detected in 28.46% of the stool samples, while the prevalence in the ELISA milk tests was 3.2%.
- The lungworm prevalence was 3.1%.
- A significant correlation was found between coughing and the detection of lungworm larvae (p = 0.011).
- An elevated Body Condition Score (BCS) significantly reduced the likelihood of MDS infection.
- Fasciola hepatica be found
for other symptoms and management factors (e.g., reproductive problems, feeding, proximity to water)
Conclusion of the prevalence study on endoparasites in dairy cows
The results show that parasite management in the study area generally be considered satisfactory .
Nevertheless, the results also highlight the importance of regular parasitological checks and a well-thought-out management plan – especially with regard to young animals and their immune development .
Effective parasite management protects your cows' health, improves milk production, and saves costs in the long run. Targeted treatment is key, rather than blanket deworming.
Recommendation from our project manager for practical application
- Have fecal samples examined regularly – especially in young cattle and those in at-risk groups. This will allow you to detect an infestation early.
- Deworming only when necessary – targeted treatment prevents resistance and saves money and the environment.
- Pay attention to pasture management – e.g., use rotational grazing, do not allow animals to graze too short, and alternate animal species (e.g., cattle and horses) on areas.
- Good stable hygiene – dry lying areas, regular mucking out and clean drinking troughs – helps to minimize parasites such as worms, coccidia or lice.
Tip: Work with your veterinarian to create a farm-specific plan. This will help keep your animals healthy and productive.
Final report of the prevalence study on endoparasites in dairy cows
HBLFA Raumberg-Gumpenstein would like to thank all participating companies and project partners for their successful cooperation.
