Pre-movement testing extended to all cattle over 42 days of age

Pre-movement testing for bovine tuberculosis has today (1 March) been extended to all cattle over 42 days old, unless the herd or movement meets an exemption.

DEFRA considers pre-movement testing an important measure to reduce the risk of TB being spread through cattle movements. 

DEFRA assessments estimate that testing cattle over 42 days old will save 610 new incidents per year. Total costs of the policy per year are estimated as £5.9m, total benefits £10.5m, giving net benefits of £4.6m.

All cattle over 42 days old moving from a one- or two-yearly tested herd must have tested negative to a TB test within 60 days prior to movement, unless the herd or movement meets an exemption. 

While pre-movement tests must be arranged and paid for by herd owners, routine surveillance tests paid for by government can be used as a pre-movement test for a period of 60 days.

Pre-movement testing was introduced in March 2006 in England and May 2006 in Wales.  This policy has been rolled out in two stages to give farmers and vets time to adapt their businesses.

Further information on pre-movement testing can be found here