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Cattle owners reminded to test for bovine trichomoniasis

Staff reports

Cattle owners are reminded to test their herd for bovine trichomoniasis, according to the Colorado Department of Agriculture.

As of May 27, there were five positive “trich” locations in the state. The counties affected so far are Baca, Costilla, Custer, Las Animas and Otero. A map showing trichomoniasis sample submissions and the prevalence of positive counties can be found at http://www.colorado.gov/ag.

“The department has seen a decrease in the number of positive trich cases and is encouraged by these numbers. This shows that the livestock industry and the CDA mitigation efforts have been working,” Dr. Keith Roehr, state veterinarian, said in a statement. “But this doesn’t mean ranchers should decrease their testing rates. It is important that this infection does not respect county lines.”



The CDA says that trich is a costly, yet preventable, infection that can affect dairy and beef cattle. If bulls become infected, the percentage of open cows can increase from 5 to 30 percent. It is a venereal disease of cattle which can cause fertility problems, such as early embryonic death or abortion of the calf, and is asymptomatic in bulls.

Colorado trich regulations require all non-virgin bulls changing ownership or being transported into Colorado be tested unless the animal is going to slaughter. Bulls on public land grazing permits or with grazing associations must also be tested prior to turn-out.



Several diagnostic laboratories across the state offer trich testing; samples must be taken by an accredited veterinarian. For testing questions call the CDA Animal Industry Division at (303) 239-4161.


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