Tackling the late season spike in worm larvae

Words: Zoetis

As autumn rolls in and pastures in New Zealand become increasingly worm-laden, effective parasite control is top-of-mind for dairy farmers preparing cows for dry-off.

Cydectin Pour-On for cattle stands out as a trusted, convenient, and highly effective tool for managing worm burdens at this critical stage.

Drying off marks a pivotal moment in the dairy season, setting cows up for a healthy calving and productive lactation ahead.

However, autumn pastures are notorious for harbouring worm larvae, making the impact of late-season parasite challenges in cows economically challenging.

Treating in autumn with a broad-spectrum anthelmintic like Cydectin Pour-On helps reduce the parasite load, boosts cow condition, and supports optimal production in the following season.

NZ trial work demonstrates the advantages of using Cydectin Pour-On at dry-off.

Studies conducted at dry-off, calving and late lactation have shown that cows treated with Cydectin Pour-On produced, on average, over four kilograms milk solids per cow more than their untreated herdmates 1.

This highlights that even adult cattle can be affected by parasites, especially if feed quantity or quality (protein and energy) is limiting.

The effective removal of parasites is only part of the reason why there is this response to Cydectin Pour-On.

Due to its long-lasting effectiveness, this drench keeps cows protected from key parasites — Ostertagia for up to 35 days and Trichostrongylus for up to 28 days.

With ongoing defence against these infective larvae, cattle stay healthier and more productive, enjoying the benefits of improved efficiency throughout the duration of coverage.

One of Cydectin Pour-On’s standout features is its nil milk, meat and bobby calf withholdings.

For farmers, this means total peace of mind. Cows can be treated before dry-off and still be milked, calves can still be bobbied, and cull cows can go to slaughter.

There’s no need for restrictive management or worrying about residue issues. It’s a straightforward, no-fuss solution that fits seamlessly into any end of season routine.

Cydectin Pour-On’s easy-to-use application, reliable efficacy, and long-acting protection make it the pour-on of choice before or at dry-off.

Farmers can be confident their cows are better protected from parasites during the risky autumn and winter months, setting up the herd for a productive new season.

When talking to your farming customers, remind farmers that:

- Cydectin Pour-On delivers powerful worm control during the autumn worm challenge.
- It’s backed by NZ-specific research.
- Nil withholding periods maximise farmer flexibility and peace of mind.
- Healthy, well-conditioned cows at calving means a better start for the next season.

1. Murphy, A. The effect of treatment with moxidectin, a long acting endectocide, on milk production in lactating dairy cows Buiatrics World Congress, 1998

2. CEESA data Q3 2025