Milk yield as a criteria for TST

The aim of a 2019 Swiss study was to investigate the relationship between milk yield and gastrointestinal nematode (GIN) infection in dairy sheep and based on this, to evaluate milk performance data as a potential criteria for TST (targeted selective treatment). 1159 Lacaune ewes from 15 dairy sheep farms in Switzerland were included in the study. Individual fecal samples were taken from every ewe to determine fecal egg count (EPG). In addition, FAMACHA© scores and packed cell volume (PCV) were determined.

Results showed a positive relationship between daily milk yield and EPG in the Swiss Lacaune dairy sheep, indicating high yielding ewes to be less resistant to GIN infections than low yielding ewes. The effect was most pronounced in the earlier stage of lactation, suggesting the potential of using milk yield data of earlier lactation as an indicator for TST. It was also determined that on farms with predominantly H. contortus, treatment decisions could be supported by the application of FAMACHA© scores. Source: Veterinary Parasitology, 2020, December 4.