Parasites threaten the health and productivity of Brazilian livestock

Parasites represent one of the main threats to cattle health, directly affecting livestock productivity and profitability. According to Renato Coser, veterinarian and sales manager for Syntec's large animal unit, these organisms can be internal, such as gastrointestinal worms, or external, such as ticks and flies. Both cause a series of problems that result in considerable financial losses for rural producers. One of the most worrying effects of parasite infestation is the reduction in the animals' weight gain. "The impairment of general health caused by parasites interferes with feed efficiency, since cattle are unable to effectively convert nutrients into body mass. This directly impacts meat production and, consequently, the property's profitability," explains Coser. Another significant impact involves fertility. The presence of parasites compromises the animals' reproductive condition, causing a delay in the females' heat cycle, which results in lower birth rates. “In addition ...