Controlling Dermatitis

A SALT WATER spray may provide a low-cost preventative measure for digital dermatitis in dairy cows.

A research project at Myerscough College, Lancs, compared treatment using oxytetracycline spray, 20% salt water solution and no treatment. The antibiotic spray reduced dermatitis lesions and was the only effective treatment option, but the salt water spray prevented lesion scores from increasing, it concluded.

OILS HELP RAISE MILK YIELDS

ADDING A BLEND of essential oils to a dairy cow diet increased milk output, milk fat and protein, according to SAC Ayr research. Nick Offer reported these benefits with increasing levels of Crina Ruminants in the diet.

“These are a blend of essential oil compounds which stimulate rumen activity and boost population of beneficial microbes, through anti-microbial and digestive stimulant activity.”