Bovine coccidiosis

Abstract

Coccidians are protozoal parasites that are host specific, transmitted by the fecal-oral route and cause enteritis. Economically significant species discussed in this paper that cause disease in cattle belong to the genus Eimeria. Young animals are more susceptible to clinical disease than older cattle. Coccidiosis is frequently observed in stressed, overcrowded and confined conditions, however, the disease can occur on pasture. The disease can occur any time of the year but is more prevalent during winter months, even in confinement operations. Animals may pass oocysts in their feces without clinical disease, therefore, a diagnosis of coccidiosis is based on clinical signs and ruling out other diseases. Identification of coccidian postmortem specimens supports the diagnosis. Management procedures that reduce stress and prevent contamination of feed and water are important in preventing coccidiosis. Effective control programs also commonly incorporate the use of medicated feed or water. Drugs commonly used in the US for coccidiosis control and prevention programs include monensin, lasalocid, decoquinate and amprolium. When clinical disease is present, amprolium, sulfonamides and management changes are used to control the disease.