Dip cattle religiously – farmers told

Bulawayo, (New Ziana)- Farmers across the country have been advised by the veterinary department to dip their cattle at least once a week religiously to avoid animal losses from tick-borne diseases.

In an advisory statement, the Department of Veterinary Services under the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development said dipping cattle was mandatory by law, and in the rain season this should be done at least once a week to control ticks.

More than 500 000 cattle have been lost to tick-borne diseases, particularly theileriosis or January disease, in the last few years in many parts of the country.

“The rains are now upon us. Most parts of the country are receiving good rains to support cropping and pastures. The good rains, however, (come) with them an increased activity of ticks and resulting in tick borne diseases such as the notorious January Diseases,” said the department.

It said dipping was the single most effective control measure against all ticks and tick-borne diseases.

“Dipping should be repeated when the animals are rained on within 24 hours of dipping. Cattle should be inspected for ticks 2-3 days after dipping especially inside ears, under the tail, on the adder and tail brush,” said the Department.

It also advised to apply tick grease on the most tick-prone parts of cattle in between dipping sessions.

“Farmers are advised to inspect their cattle twice a day, in the mornings and evenings for any signs of illness (depression, weakness, off feed and lagging behind) and report immediately to the nearest veterinary office.

“Early reporting improves treatment success rates. Prevention is better than cure as treatment outcomes are not always successful. Farmers should bring all their animals for dipping to avoid unnecessary, preventable cattle deaths,” the department advised.

According to the veterinary service, tick borne diseases account for about 67 percent of all cattle deaths every year.

Theileriosis, anaplasmosis, babesiosis and heartwater are the four most prevalent tick-borne diseases in Zimbabwe.

Among the four, theileriosis or January disease has been the most devastating in the last three years.

New Ziana