Publications

Reports of Bovine Ischemic Teat Necrosis (ITN) – which causes cattle to excessively lick and remove their teats – are on the up. The condition was first officially identified in UK herds in 2004, with anecdotal evidence suggesting around half of UK dairy farmers have seen at least one case in their herd. With first […]

Milk urea levels are a useful means of assessing ration balance, with fluctuations typically highlighting a shift in the balance between rumen degradable protein and energy. Elevated milk ureas suggest protein is not being utilised effectively by the cow. This not only has dietary and environmental cost implications but could also negatively impact on fertility. This insight publication looks at how urea is produced, discusses target levels and how to manage urea levels.

Good building ventilation is vital to remove the huge amounts of heat and moisture produced by cows every day. Failure to get it right can lead to heat stress and higher levels of disease due to the build-up of pathogens. Where every step has been taken to improve shed ventilation naturally, the use of mechanical ventilation can help cool cows and improve ventilation.

Many publications focus on the identification and prevention of lameness and much less emphasis has been given to the practical treatment of the animal once it has been identified as lame. Hoof blocks are routinely used as part of the treatment regime. In recent years, more hoof blocks and shoes have become available with innovative […]

As the days start to get longer, it is time once again to turn our attention to fly control. The main months of fly activity in the UK are May to August, but as we all know the seasons in this country can be very variable and so it is worth being prepared to treat […]

This insight publication is one in a series of three worming publications: Understanding Anthelmintics and Youngstock Worms, that together provide a comprehensive guide for developing a good worming strategy in conjunction with your vet. In the UK, anthelmintic resistance is common in sheep, and while less so in cattle, it is a growing threat to […]

Consistent growth throughout their early years is essential to ensure heifers calve in at the most economical age at first calving of 24 months, but all too often turnout can set youngstock back. This insight publication looks at avoiding dips in growth rate at grass, and how regular weighing, careful nutrition and putting in place […]

This is one of a series of three insight publications, looking at parasitic worms in cattle. Together these publications provide a comprehensive guide for developing a good worming strategy in conjunction with your vet. There are many species of roundworm worms (Nematodes) that can parasitise cattle, but only a few are of economic importance within the UK, these are: Ostertagia ostertagi, Cooperia oncophora and Dictyocaulus viviparous. This insight publication examines theses parasites in greater detail, to provide a better understanding of this economically important disease.

In the UK anthelmintic resistance is common in sheep, and while less so in cattle, it is a growing threat to their health and welfare. If left unimpeded, it could lead to existing anthelmintics becoming ineffective. Ensuring good worming practices and developing a reliable worming strategy will not only improve herd health leading to economic […]

Careful monitoring of the performance and health of freshly calved cows will help to achieve expected lactation yields. Particular attention should be paid to cows who are "at risk" of having problems post calving. Monitoring their health and providing early treatment where necessary will improve whole herd performance. This insight covers: Knock-on effects post calving […]

This is the fourth issue of our new publication, research insight. The aim of the publication is to translate relevant scientific research into useful information for your farm. This issue looks at how farmers can optimise medicine efficacy by following best practice in storing and administering drugs. There is increasing pressure on producers to use […]

Bovine Viral Diarrhoea (BVD) is a highly contagious viral disease of cattle caused by the pestivirus. It causes huge losses in terms of reduced herd health, fertility, production and abortion. It is estimated that over 90% of the national cattle herd have been exposed to the virus. Estimated costs of disease are between £13 and […]