Animal Health Ireland together with Teagasc has brought out an Beef HealthCheck series of videos on key health aspects farmers should consider around housing.

This week's video takes a look at dealing with lice and mite problems. With many cattle housed across the country at this stage, there will be a significant number of farmers considering the best approach to treating lice and mite problems. This can be identified by seeing cattle licking excessively as well as scratching on gates and posts.

Winter housing provides the perfect environment for these parasites to thrive and spread from one animal to another as cattle are in close proximity.

There are two products that can deal with these problems outlined in the video. The first is synthetic pyrethroids which are a pour on or spot on type product. The second group of products are the clear drenches or ivermectin based products.

Important factors to consider when treating animals include:

• Make sure you know the withdraw period of the product, especially with finishing animals.

• Read the label as different products have different means of application.

• Make sure the dose is sufficient for the weight of the animal you are treating.