Impact of Gastrointestinal Worm Infestations on Bovine Milk Yield: A Study Assessing How Worm Infestations Affect the Quantity of Milk Produced in Cattle

Abstract

Background: Gastrointestinal worm infestations are a significant concern in the dairy industry, potentially impacting the productivity and health of the cattle. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the relationship between worm infestations and milk yield in lactating cows in the Dera Ismail Khan district. Methods: A total of 100 lactating cows, spread across five farms, were grouped into control (no deworming) and treatment (dewormed) groups. Baseline data, including age, weight, breed, and milk yield, were collected. The treatment group received an oral broad-spectrum anthelmintic. Milk yields were monitored daily, and fecal samples were examined biweekly over a two-month period to assess worm burden. The study also identified the predominant worm species through larval cultures. Results: Initial baseline data manifested analogous characteristics between both groups. However, during the study, milk yield exhibited a significant increase in the treatment group on four out of the five farms, with increments ranging from 1.2L to 2.8L per day more than the control group. Concurrently, fecal egg counts for the treatment group drastically decreased from an initial count of 1,480 eggs/gram to 120 eggs/gram by the end of two months. In the realm of worm species, Ostertagia ostertagi emerged as the predominant species at 60%. Conclusion: The study underscores the negative impact of gastrointestinal worm infestations on milk yield in cattle and highlights the benefits of regular deworming practices in enhancing dairy productivity and cattle health