Bovine coccidiosis has been thoroughly researched for many years. Fitzgerald, PR, and Mansfield ME., reported on the economic significance of coccidiosis in calves. J Parasitol 1969; 55:39 (abstract). Later these same researchers reported the effects of bovine coccidiosis on certain blood components, feed consumption, and body weight changes of calves. Am J Vet Res 1972; 33(7):1391-1397.
During the 1970’s and 80’s, a class of compounds known as “ionophores” were recognized for their efficacy in controlling or preventing coccidiosis in both poultry and ruminant animals. Both Bovatec (lasalocid) and Rumensin (monensin) continue to be used effectively for this purpose. Under current FDA directives, both of these products do not require a prescription for use by producers.
In 2001 Dr. Jim Quigley summarized forty years of research and development on the understanding of coccidiosis in neo-natal calves. This excellent publication can be reviewed at http://www.calfnotes.com/pdffiles/CN017.pdf
Dr. Quigley continues to publish monthly information on calf management and disease on his Calf Notes web site. Calving Ease is a monthly newsletter, focused on calving management since 1995. Calving Ease is authored by Dr. Sam Leadley. These monthly articles on calf management by Dr. Leadley, bring a practical perspective to calf rearing. For a complete listing of these excellent short publications consult http://www.calfnotes.com/CNcalvingease.htm.
